.

Time Flies

2010-05-31T21:48:00.003-04:00

It's crazy when I sit down and look at this blog and realize that so much time has ACTUALLY gone by, when it really doesn't seem as if it's possible. Well, it is, apparently. It's been 6 months and I wonder where the time has gone... I am really going to try to get better at this.. One day, I hope to get it printed into a book and keep it for Giuliana. Maybe she'd like to have it, or maybe she'll think I was crazy for doing it. Who knows.. I am clearly hoping for the 1st response. Ah well.. Only time will tell. She's got so much personality that it's hard to tell what she'll think or do.

Speaking of "The Queen"... That's what I have been referring to her lately. She started watching the Disney princess movies a few months back and she picked up key phrases like " Your royal highness " and variations of that. Ever since then, she's been " The Queen ".

Her birthday was in Feb. She's a big girl of 3 now and she is careful to remind me of that whenever she feels like it is going to drive her point home. She never uses it at the right now, like a lot of her points, but they sure are funny. I hope I remember them for years to come, I try to capture as much of this time in my head as possible in hopes that the memories stay with me for a life time.

The weather has finally come around and it's been beach weather since about Mid March. We started going about the end of March and we've been pretty much every weekend since then. She enjoys the beach. She runs through the waves, chases them back out, and then shrieks and runs from them as if they are chasing her back into the shore. It's a lot of fun to watch. I enjoy watching her be a kid and be innocent. It's nice. It relaxes me to just be AT the beach but to see her enjoy it so much-- well, that's just a plus.

In a few weeks Giuliana is moving into a new classroom. It's sort of like a Pre-K. She goes to a private school and they have their own way of doing things. People thought I was crazy when they found out I was putting her there (she was 4 mths old when she started) and that there was no way an infant would learn to sign to me before she would speak to me. Well, she did. She's learned everything they have tried to teach her-- INCLUDING how to write her own name. Yep, she's 3 years old, and she's learning to write. Wanna know the best part? She actually enjoys it and comes home and wants to work in her workbooks or color inside the lines. Her teachers are impressed with her ability to pick up and retain things. She's done really well. I'm proud. Now, if we could just get her to focus on ONE thing at a time and maybe, just maybe, LISTEN to her Momma :)

A New Year & Decade begins...

2010-01-02T13:47:00.005-05:00

I have had so many people say to me " I didn't realize it was the end of a DECADE..", but it was. I started writing my "decade in review" last week, but I have not gotten it finished. When I do, I'll post it. I am not sure people would be too interested in reading it, but I have enjoyed writing it and remembering all the things that happened each year- After all, when I began this decade I had just graduated from high school and I turned 18 at the end of that 1st year. Crazy how things have changed in my life since then.

Christmas was a lot of fun. We spent time with family and ate great food. I think Giuliana opened gifts for a week! She got some really cool stuff from everyone and I have had to go through her old toys and get them together to be donated. You have to make room for the new stuff,plus her birthday is right around the corner. It's hard to believe my little baby is going to be 3 soon.

New years resolutions... It seems to me, that everyone makes them, and no one really follows them. Myself included for the most part. Last year I made 2. The first was to simply GET THROUGH '09 and the 2ed one was to loose some weight. I didn't really work on number 1 till about June or July, and I am happy to report I really have gotten a lot of my "self" back. And the loosing weight thing-- that happened quite on accident at work back in April. Since then, I have lost 19.5 pounds. I am pretty excited about that, and I am looking tons better! I still have about 12-15 pounds to go until I am at my pre-baby weight and shape, but it's coming right along. I'll hopefully get the last bit of weight off before summer. I don't think Ill ever look as great as I once did, and you wont catch me in a bikini ever again, but I sure can feel good and look good again, and I intend to do just that :)

Here are a few pictures from Christmas/New Years.

Wonderful-ness

2009-12-19T20:41:00.003-05:00

Did you know that "Wonderful-ness" was a word? It is. I've decided. Do you know what it means, or what I means to me anyway? It's the way I feel inside when Giuliana says " I love you Mom" when I haven't even said it to her. It's great. It's a new thing she started doing a few weeks back and it still catches me off guard when she says it. I've been waiting MONTHS, okay maybe 2 yrs and 10 months to be exact, for the day when she would finally say it to ME for no reason other than she wanted me to know :) I tell her all the time, sometimes she doesn't even acknowledge that I've said it, but I'm sure she's been hearing me all along and has finally figured out that she too can say is just as sporadically as I do!

Holiday Season!

2009-12-12T12:25:00.004-05:00

I love the Holidays. Doesn't everyone?? Sure, there is a lot of work to be done and a lot of money gets spent. But they are also so rich in the things that really matter. I share laughs, good times, and great food with some of the best and greatful people. This Holiday Season is no different!

Halloween was a lot of fun, and Giuliana was a Florida State Cheerleader :) I loveeddd it! It was hard to get some pictures of her in her costume because the child doesn't like to sit still, but hey, some is better than none!

Stacey put on this costume and I thought Giuliana was going to scream. I figured she would have been okay with is, she saw her put the mask on.. but it didnt matter. It took her about 30 minutes of trick-or-treating with her before she finally decided that it was okay to hold hands with her even though she didnt look like "Aunt Stacey"

For Thanksgiving we went back to Tallahassee to see Giuliana's family ( on her Dad's side) and then of course my Father's side of the family too. It was a lot of fun, and I enjoyed seeing everyone. As usual, Giuliana was sick, but thats usually how it is when we travel. She managed to get all stuffy, and then of course, she also got a stomach bug (which she then passed on to me and I was layed up allll last weekend sicker than a dog, go figure!). I did get a few pictures here and there, not near as many as I usually take, but I was busy trying to take care of her and keep her sitting still so she didnt upset her stomach all the time.

Ashley GreatGrandma Marna Jillian & Dave

Ashley Jillian Stephanie & ME!

Jillian & Cody

Aunt Jillian & Giuliana

"Cheeeeese MOM!"

Playing games with Lori and Julie

My Sister Parisa & I

I wanted to take a nice picture of Giuliana, and this was what she gave me.. she's a comedian!

Stacey Julie & Giuliana at the FSU vs UF (game) party we went to...Stacey is a little confused which of the 2 teams she roots for.. she was half Nole and half Gator!

Giuliana & Jacob with Aunt Lisa, Aunt Sharon & Aunt Stephanie

Just imagine if I would have taken a BUNCH of pictures.. haha!!

Now that we have Thanksgiving done, It's been CHIRSTMAS all month long. All Giuliana wants to do is go look for xmas lights, trees, or sing xmas songs. It's really sweet. I love that she is as into the Holidays as I was as a kid. I suppose that the Holidays really *ARE* more for the kids than the adults. Today we are going to finally put the tree up and get some lights and decorations going. She's been asking for her "own tree" for about a week or so now... I figure it prob about time I get her one :) I'll try to take some pictures to post.

Holding Hands

2009-10-24T21:53:00.004-04:00

Tonight as we walked back to our car from the Jazz Festival here in town, I walked holding Giuliana's hand. Her hand is so tiny inside of mine, and I have small hands to begin with. It was sweet. I wish I had a picture of it. I wonder how soon the time will come where she won't let me hold her hand any more :( Every day that goes by she gets older and more independent than the day before. She thinks shes so grown. Im proud of her, but I am sad too. My little baby is growing up and one day, not to far off into the future, she won't hold my hand, and for me that's a sad thing. She may always be "my little baby" but the reality of the situation is that she won't actually be. I'm going to hold her hand more often, cuddle her closer, and hug her even more than I already do, because one day she's going to say with a disgusted tone of voice "Mooomm! we're in public!" and that will be the end of that.

I love this picture. It was taken at Jillian's wedding a few weeks ago. It's not perfect or even that great of a photo, but it's one of the few times she actually held still in my arms long enough for someone to snap a picture of us together.

Oh, Hello!

2009-09-13T19:58:00.003-04:00

Hi :) Sorry, Its been about 6 weeks since the last time I posted on my blog. I do think thats the longest I have ever gone without a post :/ oops! Where have I been you may be wondering? Well, I have actually been OUT and living my life, as oppossed to staying home all the time. I have also been spending a lot of time at the gym trying to get my pre-baby body back. Its been a slow process, and I am not having any fun with it, but the results are amazing and have done WONDERS for me and my self esteem. Which is important. I have a picture I can post, but its not a full body shot. But you can even see the difference in my face, and finally, my eyes look like they have some "life" in them again. Don't get me wrong, I have enjoyed the past few years with Giuliana and all the one-on-one time I have spent with her, but it was way past time for me to start doing some things for myself too. So, I have been. Sometime around the end of October I am going to ask Allison take some new pictures of Giuliana and I, all dressed up, and I'll be sure to post those as well.

Giuliana has been doing well, and has been in swim classes for about a month now. Its crazy the kind of transition that shes has made from staring up at me underneath the water blinking at me for help, to now swimming like a little fish. She's got to be the best little floater I have ever seen. Its also the ONLY time in her LIFE where she lays perfectly still ;) I'll have to get some pictures of that so I can post them here as well. I'll take some at her lessons this week. I didnt want to take any when we first started because all she did was whine and moan the whole time she was in the water.

I've also been taking Giuliana to see her dad a lot the past few weeks. We've been able to work our time out so that she's been able to spend time with him. Either out and about and just at his work. It's something. Plus, she doesnt care where she gets to see him, aslong as she does.

We were in Tallahassee last weekend for Dave's birthday party. That was a lot of fun,and it's always great to get together with the Guthrie's and all of their diverse-ness ;) Jillian is getting married in less than a month, so I will be seeing them all again soon!! I can not *WAIT* to go to the wedding, its a beach ceremony, and the prettiest courtyard for the reception.

My Hero

2009-08-02T21:03:00.005-04:00

Do you know who My Hero is? Don't laugh, and don't roll your eyes.. Hear me out...

Giuliana is My Hero & I couldn't pick a better person to admire.

See this picture below... It's a perfect example of why.... Really LOOK at this picture...

Care Free, Fun, Happy, TASTING life & Living It!

Not only is she happy to be alive but she is also happy with her life. That's more than I can say for a lot of people (myself included at times). She is loved, and she loves. She see the good in people and is happy to just be near you. Giuliana doesn't notice your faults. She doesn't judge you. If you are nice to her she likes you. She's simple & enjoys it that way. I call Giuliana "The Mayor" because everywhere we go she is always greeting the people passing by her. She is so outgoing & will befriend anyone regardless of age, color or gender.

Like I said, she's my hero. I want to be more like her every day in every way.

Oy Vey!

2009-07-25T21:38:00.003-04:00

Nope, I am not Jewish. But, after the day I have had with Miss Thing, I have earned the right to say " Oy Vey!". I swear, she must not like me to much, despite the fact that I love her to pieces. She gave me SUCH a hard time all day. Poor Darlene, she
agreed to go to lunch with us- and after lunch- we both decided we wouldn't be going to lunch with Giuliana anymore. It was pretty stressful.

(Cute huh? I just found this. It was taken back in April)

I'm excited to say, I have some vacation time coming up in a few days. Next weekend we are all meeting at Anna Maria Island for another week-long adventure at the beach. It's sure to be fun, and I am excited at the promise of having the sand and ocean be our back yard. Not to mention, that with this new camera I have, I should get some pretty awesome pictures of our vacation this year. Stay tuned!

Weekends

2009-07-19T16:39:00.004-04:00

How great are they? I love them. I have had weekends off for about 8 months now, and I see why every one was always so shocked when I told them I always worked on the weekends, and I never had a saturday off. Now, I get it. I don't think I'll ever work weekends again. Ever.

This weekend we went to Darlene and Chucks since they finally decided to come home! It was nice to be able to spend some time with them on Friday night- and tonight too, we are going back over for dinner. On Saturday morning I took Giuliana outside to take some pictures of her.. I hadn't had my camera in almost a month. It was nice to be able to catch her funny faces again.

Also this weekend Mark, Stephen's dad, came for a short visit. He was here Saturday afternoon and stayed through this afternoon. Giuliana had a good time, they played and played and played. I was able to take a few pictures of them in the pool and then 1 of them before dinner last night. Its 4:45pm and she has been asleep since 1:20 this afternoon. Do you think she's tired?

Popcorn & Movies on TBS

2009-07-12T13:41:00.003-04:00

I love popcorn lately. So does Giuliana. I am sitting here on the couch, eating a bag of it, and I have some saved for her on the counter. She is napping. Its nice and quiet except the movie Sabrina playing on the TV. I like this movie too, some of it is set in Paris- and Paris I love!

Anyway, it's been a nice quiet weekend, not a whole lot was done, except resting and relaxing. I didn't even get around to getting a shower yesterday- although, I have had one now. Don't worry, I didn't smell.

I took this picture here at Darlene's yesterday- with her digital. I really have to talk her and Lori into getting DSLRs.

Tell the ones you love..

2009-07-08T22:03:00.004-04:00

Tell the ones you love how you feel. Don't hold back. You never know what life has in store for you, or for them. Don't leave things unsaid, and don't leave things poorly between you and your loved ones. You have to remember that it very well could be the last time you see their face, or hear their voice.

That is the best advice I have ever been given, and could give to anyone.

Yesterday I was once again reminded of how fragile life is, and will always be. It is so sad that I so often let life get me down, and let others affect my mood in a negative way. It is even sadder (bad English I know) that it takes the untimely death of a 24 year old woman, who I went to high school with, to remind me of this.

Melissa, God Rest Your Soul. You may be gone from Earth too soon, but you will never be forgotten -- so you will never really be gone. Heaven is a more beautiful site with your smiling face at the Gate.

Happy Birthday, America!

2009-07-05T09:36:00.006-04:00

Well, its been a week or so, and It finally looks like I have a few minutes to come back and blog about the 4th of July weekend.

Let me tell ya, sick babies are no fun! Giuliana was sick starting the Friday before the 4th till yesterday (7-11) with some sort of bacteria infection in her intestines or GI tract. Fun huh? Needless to say, Saturday night we had a slight revival in her spirits so we took her to a party at her Aunt Sharon's house. It was a nice afternoon, filled with good food and good company. I had a good time, and so did Giuliana.

I managed to take a few pictures, down below, with Lori's point-n-shoot.

The black and white ones are of Giuliana and Alex watching fire works! I was worried she would be scared of the noises, but she did pretty well. Towards the end she was pretty done with it, and had no problem telling you- or anyone who was listening- that she wanted to go home.

Here is Nana and PopPop sitting on a cooler :D

Here I am! Yep. I am ACTUALLY in a picture with my child! I had Lori take one so there would be one of us from the Holiday. Then of course, look at the one below of her and Alex. WAY better. I am beginning to think she doesn't like to have her photo taken with me...hrrm..

Here I am in MORE pictures.. Gosh, what WAS I thinking... Giuliana and I layed down on the hot tum cover to talk about the colors in the trees and moon etc and she asked Ashley (more like TOLD her) to lay down with us. Then Ashley asked Giuliana what she was looking at and she said " Vance up there ". I think it kind of caught Ashley off guard, but I quickly explained what Giuliana meant so Ashely understood what Giuliana knew. Stephanie took this picture of us all laying there after that conversation took place. Then right after that Giuliana rolled over and hugged and kissed me- As Stephanie stood up above us and took this sweet picture.

At the end of the night, before the fireworks, I followed the girls out into the yard and took this sweet photo. I think Giuliana was happy to be sitting there with them. Look at where her hands are- sweetly placed on each girls' leg.

"See My Big Muscles, Momma!!"

2009-07-04T12:29:00.004-04:00

Yep! You heard (Read) it here first folks! Giuliana says to me " See my big muscles, momma!" as she puts money into her piggy bank here at Nana & Pop-Pos house. It doesn't actually require big muscles, but you do have to force the money into the bank because it's one of those automatic counter type things. Anyway, she was adorable.

The headband was made by a girlfriend of mine in Jacksonville who does a lot of them for people on the boards. Her name is Lisa, and I am sure she has an etsy site or a website, I'll ask her and come back and post it if she does have one. Not only is the headband cute, I am SO thrilled she left it on, and has hair long enough to wear it :D

Last night Giuliana, Dave and I went to Chilis where Alex and Lori were going to come meet us. It gave me an excuse to try this new set on Giuliana. She had worn the top to school before, but not with the pants. I must say, I was excited to see it on her. It was cuter (in my opinion) than what I even thought it would be. Giuliana isn't feeling well, and really wasn't into haviing her picture taken, so I only got a few.. ..

Plus, I have discovered something. I am spoiled now.Don't laugh yet, this really is a new thing for me :) Ever since I got the Nikon D80, I don't want to take pictures with anything else. I am used to the speed of that camera and I dont have the patience that the point-n-shoots require ;) I'll be happy when my camera comes back from it's month long trip across the united states and Alaska.

Time Away...

2009-06-30T20:59:00.005-04:00

This past weekend, I went away. For the first time since Giuliana was born, I left her behind. Now that it's all over, and everything was fine while I was gone, I am glad I did it. But I'll admit, I was nervous. I am always worried something will happen to her if I leave her behind, or send her away for the weekend. It's normal, and it's also a little bit paranoid. But, that's me. A little corky. What can I say....

Look at what happens when I leave Giuliana with her Nana and PopPop.. They picked her up from school, and brought her home. M&Ms were on the agenda, a Wal-Mart tee and a Dora hat... Man oh Man.. Nana also sent me this picture when I was gone, with a caption.."Look Mommy, I am a fashion statement"

Wondering where I went? Well, I went to Fort Wayne, Indiana. What could POSSIBLY make me go to Ft Wayne? Matilda Jane, of course. What else?? Denise, the owner/designer at MJC had a big party on Friday night at a local Art Gallery around the corner from the main office. There were a lot of us girls that flew and drove in for the party. What a great time I had. It was WONDERFUL to finally meet Denise and her husband David. They have 2 really cute boys who were fun to play with. Specially that boy Gabe, hes a little older than Giuliana, and SOOO full of fire. I also got to meet some of the Trunk Keepers (Sales Reps) and some of the girls I chat with on the clothing boards. I am waiting on Tami, one of my girlfriends, to send me the pictures she took. Once I get them, I'll post them. For now I only have a few..

This is Amy.. She is from Tampa and her and I have hung out before.. Lucky for us, she was in Michigan already on vacation and Ft Wayne was only a few hours away ;)

This is Tami.. Gosh, she was just GREAT! Her and I spilt a hotel room and rental car. It was a BLAST. She lives too far away.. Colorado :( Good thing her and her family like to come to FL on vacation :D

Last.. and certainly not least.. This is a picture of Tina, Lisa, Sam & I. I am not sure, exactly, what I was laughing at. But whatever it was, obviously it was funny. If I had to guess.. Sam was making jokes about something as the photographer was getting ready to snap the picture.

I'll have more pictures to post once they get emailed to me.. I'll elaborate on my weekend away once I have them.. Blogging isn't as much fun with out photos ;)

Rough Days

2009-06-24T20:00:00.006-04:00

I have been having a lot of those lately. It's been hectic, and money is tight. It's not always easy doing the single parent thing.

But anyway, I came home tonight, after a rough day, that just got worse. I was short with Giuliana, and irriated all the way around. I tried time after time to chill out, and not be so aggrivated. It never happened. She goes to bed and I come to check my email and read this.
_______________________________________________________
This morning, I am going to step over the laundry and pick you up and take you to the park to play.

This morning, I will leave the dishes in the sink and let you teach me how to put that puzzle of yours together.

This afternoon, I will unplug the TV and keep the computer off and sit with you in the backyard and blow bubbles.

This afternoon, I will not yell once, even a tiny grumble, when you scream and whine for the ice cream truck and I will buy you one if he comes by.

This afternoon, I won't worry about what you are going to be when you grow up, or second guess every decision I have made where you are concerned.

This afternoon, I will let you help me bake cookies, and I won't stand over you trying to fix them.

This afternoon, I will take you to McDonald's and buy each of us a Happy Meal so you can have both toys.

This evening, I will hold you in my arms and tell you a story about how you were born and how much I love you.

This evening, I will let you splash in the tub and not get angry.

This evening, I will let you stay up late while we sit on the porch and count all the stars.

This evening, I will snuggle beside you for hours, and miss my favorite TV show.

This evening when I run my fingers through your hair as you pray, I will simply be grateful that God has given me the greatest gift ever given.
I will think about the mothers and fathers who are searching for their missing children, the mothers and fathers who are visiting their children's graves instead of their bedrooms, and mother and fathers who are in hospital rooms watching their children suffer senselessly, and screaming inside that they can't handle it anymore.

And when I kiss you goodnight I will hold you a little tighter, a little longer. It is then that I will thank God for you and ask Him for nothing except one more day.

______________________________________________________
I bolded the sections that really got to me.. the ones that make this thing ring true.

It brough tears to my eyes, and I jumped up from the computer chair and went and got Giuliana out of bed, with tears in my eyes I told her over and over again how much I loved her and I was sorry for being upset with her tonight. I must have hugged her a million times, and kissed her too. She's so sweet. She said " I know that Momma".

I really couldn't have asked God for a better child or a sweeter gift. I love her, pieces.

Dots, Dots & More Dots!

2009-06-22T21:48:00.003-04:00

I love polka dots on little kids. Actually, I just love polka dots. I think that kids can wear them a lot easier, than me for example, but I do love them.

I sent Giuliana to school in this outfit the other day, and some new shoes from Nana(the SHOE Nana to be exact). I got tons of compliments on it, which shocked me. But I guess people like the simplicity of it, and perhaps the fact that it "actually matches".

What's funny about this picture is the conversation that we had while I was taking it. Giuliana is CONVINCED that this bike rack is ACTUALLY monkey bars, and she will not hear you out when you try to explain to her what it actually was. Ah well, the beauty of being 2 ;)

Tally & Back!

2009-06-21T20:40:00.004-04:00

It's been busy the past few weeks.. excuse the lack of posting.

My evenings have been spent trying to get Giuliana to go potty here at home- which I have not done so well at. Seems that she will go all day long at school, at her friends house, at a McDonald's in the middle of no where.. but go at home? No way! That just CAN'T happen! I've been trying, and so has she, but for whatever reason, she just won't go. I'm hoping this week goes a little better.

Last weekend was Carli's 1st birthday. It was a lot of fun, and I tried to get away before the pool part of the party started. Well, as you can see below, that did not go so well. Actually, when she was sad I wouldn't let her go in and I was trying to leave... I got her bathing suit out of the car and let her have at it. What can I say, I'm a sucker for her ;)

This past weekend we were in Tallahassee for my sister's 17th birthday. It was a lot of fun and always nice to see family. However, it was 101 degrees there and "felt like" according to the TV weather man, about 110+ with the heat index. I took Giuliana swimming in the pool with my youngest sister and her girlfriend who was over visiting. It was alot of fun and for the first time, Giuliana would jump in and actually let her self go under the water.

Here is Giuliana & MoMo.. He was watering the plants, so they didn't die in the 100degree heat and Giuliana was attempting to convince him to let her help..Can't you tell...

I Did Potty!

2009-06-11T20:16:00.004-04:00

Yep! That's right! Giuliana has begun to go potty on the big girl potty. Strange how that makes me proud, but it does. They have been working really hard at school to get them all started on potty training and she started going on the 2ed day. Of course, in true form, she has not gone for me. But that is something I am used to. She always shows me LAST when she's learned something new.

This past weekend we were supposed to go to Elizabeth's baby shower. So, Giuliana and I got all dressed up- I even let her wear jewelry for goodness sakes. Then we hopped in the car and made our way to that side of town. Funny how 1 hour later, and many u-turns, phone calls, and text messages; we could never find the party. The phrase " All dressed up with no where to go " kept creeping into my head. I decided we wouldn't go home, we made all this effort into looking nice, SOMEONE had to see us. So, we went to Chuck and Darlene's house for a little bit. We are there so often they probably didn't even notice that we were in fact all dressed up. I even had on makeup for goodness sakes!

This weekend is another party packed weekend. We have Carli's 1st birthday on Saturday and then a baby shower for Linkon's Mommy- he's going to be a big brother in a few months. So, Saturday will give me another reason to dress her up and take some more pictures.. as if I need a reason, huh? I'm not so sure Giuliana enjoys this though...

No comments from the peanut gallery... Good night!

2 Shoes + 2 Cookies = Good Day 4 Giuliana

2009-06-06T21:43:00.004-04:00

I tried to help my girlfriend buy MAGIC playoff tickets this morning. My oh my. I thought Matilda Jane sold out fast- those tickets were all gone in less than 6 minutes- and for all 3 games. Can you believe that?? I was shocked. Sadly, they are usually called the "Tragic" but all of the sudden they have become a hot ticket item! I am glad for them, they worked hard. It's also good for my local economy :)

After that fun was over, I got Giuliana dressed and off to Mammy's house we went! She took us for a nice little shopping trip to get Giuliana some much needed tennis shoes and socks ;) I can't wait to put them on her! She was also sweet enough to take us to lunch, and then I treated Giuliana to 2 cookies while we were at the mall. All in all, I would say that the kid made out pretty well. Wouldn't you?

I took a few pictures of Darlene and Giuliana together before we left this morning and then I got one of Giuliana with the fountain that Darlene & Chuck's neighbors donated in memory of Clara. It was a really sweet thing they did, and meant so much to Chuck to have that there for everyone to see. Clara really was such a great lady and even in her passing she always remained classy and greatful of people.

It's Catch Up Time!

2009-06-02T21:40:00.006-04:00

Where have we been you may wonder.. NOT HERE. Seems like we never stay put for very long these days. I have been all over the place. Since last weekend, it doesn't seem like we've stopped..

Giuliana developed Bronchitis. Fun, huh? The good doctor recommended that I take her to the beach and let the salt air and salt water do her lungs and sinus' some good.. so I did. Allison and Carli came along for the ride ;) Oh how I love the beach. It brings a smile to Giuliana's face that never seems to end, and a sense of peace comes over me.. I wish I could live at the beach. I hope at some point in my life, I can own and live in a small little beach abode.

How CUUTE are these two? They liked being in the sun shade. Allison and I decided however that it was a major pain to put away, and it needed to go back to the store ASAP...

I also took Giuliana to see Daddy this weekend too. She was excited to go see him, and excited to be there. She's not a fan of loud noises, and gets scared easily. So she was attached to my leg while we were in the shop. We did take her around back though where it was quiet and I took a few pictures of them together. How cute does she look here. She loves him so much. He doesn't even know how lucky he is to have a daughter like her, who loves him so unconditionally. She may be a "spitting image" of her Daddy, but to me, I see myself in this picture of them two.

This kid is so funny. If she can't physically SEE me or hear my voice, she turns around to make sure I am not gone. Look at him, looking at her, who is looking at me.. I sure do love her.

I took these pictures a few days ago in the garage. I really like the fabrics on this top, and the dress above. They are GREAT colors for Giuliana and they are so brought and cheery. Not to mention, they wash up GREAT and fit just WONDERFUL. My girlfriend in Colorado has an Etsy store that she sells them at.

These I took these morning.. Shes so cute. The 1 picture was taken outside of her school.

And lastly, let me just tell you- and anyone who reads this - I love this girl. My goodness. I never knew I could love some one as much as I love her. It amazes me every day. She changes and grows right before my eyes, and each day I somehow love her more than the day before. She gives so much purpose and so much reason to my life it's just amazing.

Everyone should be so lucky to live the twinkle of a child's eye- because that's got to be Heaven on Earth.

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-25T22:02:00.003-04:00

Have I ever told you how much I love holiday weekends? Well, I do. I think I like them better than I like vacations to be honest. I look forward to them for at least 6weeks before it's actually here. Is that weird? I suppose it could be. But hey, I never claimed to be main-stream.

This weekend we went to Tampa to see Julie and Brandon who live over there, and Lori and Dave drove down from Tallahassee to see us all too. Julie had quite a "honey-do" list for Dave. Poor guy, worked all weekend. BUT, when all the chores were done we got to spend today (Monday) at Anna Maria island, which was a lot of fun, and SO very beautiful. Lori and I both agreed that we were moving there, and never going home again... Somehow, that didn't really pan out, but look at the picture above and tell me it didn't sound like a PERFECT idea. That was the 1st thing we saw after we parked and started walking down to the beach from the side street we parked on.

I limited the amount of stuff I brought along for this trip and only brought her bucket, shovel & wagon with us. Less is more I keep telling myself. Thankfully she never did ask me where the rest of her toys were. I didn't really know what I would have said had she asked. I think one of the things Giuliana likes most about the beach is that shes allowed to get all dirty, and dig in the sand, and get it every where.

And then of course, what trip to the beach would be complete without 2 passed out kiddies in the back seat? Neither of them had the slightest clue that I even took this picture, and it's adorable.

On the way home tonight Giuliana says " Miiisssss you " in the back seat, to which I replied " I miss you too honey" just assuming that she was talking to me. She yelled back at me " No Momma!!! Brandon miss me, not you!!". She sure loves that boy!

Happy Cake!!

2009-05-17T22:28:00.002-04:00

That's what Giuliana calls " Birthday Cake ". How cute is that? She jumps around and asks Elizabeth if it's time for " Happy Cake !" and really, it was more than likely a request and not a question knowing her haha ;)

Today was Evie's 2ed birthday party and Elizabeth and Steve got her a bounce house for the party. Well, Giuliana and Evie were both intrigued by it, but neither one of them was SOLD on being IN it exactly. I had to go IN, yes IN, the bounce house for a little while till they decided it was okay and they weren't going to get hurt. Here are a few pictures from the party today.

How cute is this little girl? That's Carli, she will be a big girl of "1" next month. I can't wait to go to her party. I was there when her parents got married, photographed that event, and then was there when she was born. It's fun to watch someone grow- to be there from the beginning.

Giuliana is all hot and nasty here. She jumped in that bounce house for at least 2 or 3 hours today today. She was sooooo tired by the time we got home. She went down for a nap with out a fight.

Oh yeah, I am about 90% better now thanks to some antibiotics. Thank goodness for Modern Medicine!

Nyquil

2009-05-14T20:59:00.002-04:00

Nyquil is great. Whoever invented it, thank you. I am sick, obviously, and loving this stuff! It brings me the relief I need to sleep.

Anyway, this picture is for you Dave.. I know how much you love it! Enjoy it tho, there will be no CAMO hats in Giuliana's near future ;)

That is all. I am going to bed.

A Little More Mother's Day Love..

2009-05-10T19:43:00.007-04:00

So, today was ACTUALLY Mother's day, but the majority of it was spent in the car, on the way home from Cape San Blas. It was quite a drive. We were gone by 10am and not back here till 4:30-5pm. A full day's ride, so they say. It was well worth it. I enjoyed myself, and so did Giuliana.

Yesterday morning before the sun got to high I took Giuliana down to this spot on the beach where there was a BIG washed up log (from who knows where) and took her picture. While we were down there, we ran into PaPa Chuck and Giuliana took a picture with him as well.

She was okay with it up until she fell down off of the log. Then she wouldn't have anything to do with me. As evident in the picture below. She's a firecracker I tell ya.

I also want to introduce Prissy, that's Giuliana's little friend you will see from time to time. She's a doll I bought from a VERY talented lady on Etsy. She even made the doll some clothes to match some of my favorite clothes that Giuliana has. So far Giuliana and Prissy have gone pretty much everywhere together, I hope she continues to like her as much as I do.

Before we left this morning, I took Giuliana down to the beach for just a few more pictures. I know, I know... Poor kid. But her dress was so pretty, and after all, it was Mother's Day. A girl on Etsy, also quite talented , made this dress for Giuliana. I loved it when I saw it by another designer, but that designer has since gone under.. so this was a GREAT thing Melissa did for us!! The necklace is of course by my dear friend Heather. She's been sending all kinds of pretties for Giuliana! We love them all!!

Cape San Blas & Mother's Day

2009-05-08T23:16:00.003-04:00

We're in Cape San Blas for Mother's Day and while everyone is fast asleep I thought maybe I would have some time to post some pictures of what I've taken so far. We didn't get to the beach until mid afternoon and by the time we got out there, the sun was pretty high. So, these were the best I could get. I am hoping to take Giuliana out on to the beach tomorrow morning before the sun gets too high and I can get some better pictures of her.

These 2 are of Giuliana and Uncle Alex before we went to dinner tonight. I didn't get any good ones of Giuliana and Alex, she wouldn't play nice. But I did manage to get a good one of her, despite her efforts of sabotage

If you are ever in Port St. Joe , Florida you have to find this place called "Peppers". It's where we had dinner tonight and it was AMMMMAZING!!!

2009-04-26T21:00:00.002-04:00

Some one was feeling a little better this afternoon so I took her for a quick trip to the mall. I needed to get out of the house, and so did she.

Before we left for the mall we went over and saw Memaw because she was sitting outside on the porch. I took a few pictures of them together. None of which was any good really. The ones where Giuliana wasn't busy with her fingers in her mouth- which is her new camera pose- she was moving to much to get a steady shot. So here is the *best* one.

Aunt Lori sent home a few little prezzies for Giuliana, but I'm only going to show one right now. I need a MUCH better picture of the other, before I let the cat out of the bag on that! So, here she is, with her new toothbrush :)

And last but not least.. she didn't think my camera lens would be able to get her, so she didn't have her hands in her mouth. I tell ya, she does WHATEVER she can to try to get me going lol.

She's sick again!

2009-04-25T13:00:00.005-04:00

I swear, poor girl is always sick it seems. I don't know where or why she gets it. But it's always a viral, there is ALWAYS nothing that they can give me to treat it. It's a bit annoying to say the least. I missed some work last week, Darlene watched her some, and Grandma did too. We all kind of took turns taking care of her.

I got bored yesterday and dressed Giuliana up. I wanted to see if these pants would be capris, or still full length. I was hoping for capris, and I am glad I was right. Soem of you will tell me that they are a bit "loud" but I like them, and they are perfect for beach vacations, and trips around town. So, they're stayin!

Today we had to get out of the house- I was, and so was she - tired of being home all the time. So we got showers and cleaned our selves up nicely and went to the Red Ball (Target) as Giuliana calls it. I needed a shoe rack for the back of my door, and she needed a new Elmo movie, or so I was informed. What do you think of this outfit? A little Jailbird-ish. But its still cute, and SO comfy! She loved it and it didn't get on her nerves. Aunt Carol made the pretty bow in her hair! A perfect match!

Larry had his Vespa in the driveway, and on the back is a big black baboon stuffed monkey type thing... My goodness. She kept giving it dirty looks and saying " No scare me!!!" at the top of her lungs. I'm guessing she wasn't a fan?

Maclay Gardens & Lake Ella

2009-04-22T20:58:00.006-04:00

My Sister, Parisa, took Giuliana down to Maclay Gardens last weekend while I was in Tallahassee for my other Sister's 15th birthday ( I have 3 sisters ). It was a nice afternoon with just the 3 of us. We never do stuff with JUST Parisa, so it was nice. I took a lot of pictures of Giuliana and Parisa, but I also had her take some of just Giuliana and I.

I got us matching necklaces from a girlfriend out in Colorado who does custom beading. I picked out SERVAL beads and then gave her an overview of what I was looking for and she went to work. I had always wanted a Mothers Necklace, and this was just the thing I was looking for. My as a silver pendant that is stamped with "Mommy" , a princess crown, and Giuliana's birthstone. It also has her birthstone dangling down behind the big heart. I picked out the big clay beads you see. Raspberry, butterflies, flowers etc. It's lovely. I wanted Giuliana's to match, with out being cheesy. So, we have a lot of the same beads, same color scheme, but she has a butterfly that is stamped with GiGi on the front and purple and peridot gems that are sealed to it. Her name is Heather, and this is her site Chickapee Creations. Its a site on Etsy where you can "convo" her to discuss having a custom made, or picking one out that she already has completed. She's a real artist!

And then of course, I had to take a few of my Princess, on her own. I can never really help myself. These two pictures were taken one right after the other, and look at how different she looks in each one. She's really something.

Wanna see one of my Sister and Giuliana? Well, here you go. Remember, I have 3 sisters, this is just the oldest one of the bunch. She's an interesting girl. You never really know what she's thinking, or what she's going to do. She has grown up to be so beautiful, but so clueless to it. Parisa is a bit of fresh air mixed with attitude. I love that girl.

Backpack!! Backpack!!

2009-04-16T22:06:00.003-04:00

So here is a conversation with a 2 year old.

Background Noise " Back Pack Back Pack YAAAAAH "

Giuliana: Momma, Momma, MOMMMA!!!!
Me: Yes, honey, I'm right here?
Giuliana: Me need backpack MOMMA!
Me: Huh? You need a what?
Giuliana: BACCCCCCCKPACK MOMMMA!!
Me: A Backpack? For what?
Giuliana: Gigi need backpack like Dooooah (Dora)
Me: OOOOOH, I get it. You want a backpack like Dora's backpack

Giuliana : *Smiling ever SO angelic* Yes, Momma. Backpack. Plllleeease

How about that one for ya? Yeah, she wanted a backpack. Lucky for me that Denise from Matilda Jane had sent one a few months back when I won a contest of some sort. I pulled it out of the closet, and tied the straps up so it could fit her. When I showed it to her she got so excited. I explained that it was not purple like Dora's was but that it was pretty. She agreed. She then promptly packed up her Tea Party Set and said

" Me go Lily's house"

I'm a sucker. So, off to Lily's house we went, where they had tea, and Lily asked if she could have a backpack too :D

Easter Sunday

2009-04-16T21:52:00.002-04:00

(Which one of these two do you THINK she has more wrapped around her tiny little fingers?)

Yes, I am a few days late in posting these pictures but I have been pretty tired this week. I also have another trip back to Tallahassee this weekend to see some more family- and a trip to Nana and PopPop's i'm sure. They have hopefully recovered by then.

Here are some Easter pictures I took- Giuliana hunted for eggs, but needed assistance in FINDING them. I don't think she would do that well with having to compete with other children for the eggs. So this worked at well.

And here she is at the end of the hunt, with all 12 eggs in her basket and happy as could be! They almost all had M & M 's in them, because that is what she likes so much. Happy Easter!

Saturday's Easter Hop

2009-04-12T21:27:00.006-04:00

WOW! What a weekend! It started on Friday, with what should have been a 4 hour drive to Tallahassee. It turned into a 7 hour drive instead. There was some sort of accident on the highway and it took us almost 3 hours to go 10-15 miles. Terrible! Once we got there, things were looking up!

We had dinner out at Chilis. It was great. I had the usual. Big shocker huh? LOL I can't help it. I'm pretty predictable when it comes to food.

We had a long wait before we could be seated, and Giuliana wasn't a fan.

After she ate her dinner, Nana and PopPop insisted that she *NEEDED* M&M covered ice cream.

On Saturday we had a big day planned. We had plans to go over to Carabelle Beach where some of PopPops's daughters were, and then to a Worm Grunt festival in Sopchopy. It was alot of fun, even the festival. I took some engagment photos for Jillian and Cody while we were in Carabelle. Jillian is David's daughter, and her and Cody are getting married in October. I took LOTS of pictures of Giuliana on Saturday, and some of a few other people when I remembered to ;)

Before we even left the house I tried to get some pictures of Giuliana in 1 of her Easter dresses ( I was lucky and got to pick 2 ). Here are a few of those.

I am not a fan of this picture, but it turned out to be the only one that was taken of her and I. So yeah. Here you go.
Of course, I had to take one of Pop Pop and his 2 leading ladies. I like how Giuliana and Lori and are looking at eachother and smiling with such love and appriciation for eachother. It's sweet.
I happen to really like the picture of Giuliana and Alex, I plan on getting it developed and framing it for him.

And then of course, just one of my Angel all on her own.

These were taken in Carabelle. The little baby below is Miss Addison, she is Giuliana's cousin. She is about 11 mths younger than Giuliana, and has some really beatiful olive eyes I had never noticed till I took this picture.

We took the girls down to the beach, and while they played in the sand and in the ocean, I took Jillian and Cody down the beach. It's always easier to take pictures of people when they don't have an audience.

How sweet do they look? Aunt Jillian just loves these 2 girls.
Needless to say, Giuliana obviously enjoyed her time at the beach. I hadn't planned on her going in the water, so I was not prepared with a bathing suit for her. Next time, I'll pack one just in case!

After the girls were done at the beach we got them dressed again and took them down to the Worm Grunt Festival in Sopchopy, which was on the way home. It was interesting to say the least. I saw things there I dont think I will see again, but thats alright. Giuliana had fun ridding on PopPop's sholders and everyone got a little something, from pop corn, to bracelets and hats. It had something for everyone. THANKFULLY, I did not see any " Worm Gruning" going on, however I'm still unclear as to what that really is??

Tomorrow I'll post the pictures from today. This post was long enough!!

Bowling

2009-04-09T21:35:00.003-04:00

Bowling is a dangerous activity. I don't care what you say. You have never been bowling with Giuliana. Do that, and then tell me it's not dangerous!

I don't think I need to tell you what happened.. So, yeah... Moving on....

I am going to Tallahassee tomorrow for Easter. I am excited to have the day off, and be able to spend the time with Family. I have a fun filled weekend a head, so I need to go pack!

Sorry! I've been MIA

2009-04-07T21:45:00.004-04:00

Helllllo out there! Sorry, I have been MIA for about a week or so. I've had a lot going on but I'll just fill you in on the good stuff:

Mom and I went to B-Ryan and Lindsay's wedding over this past weekend. I was a little nervous about going- but not because of who he was marrying- because I was SURE that Bryan had not told his Mom or his friends that I would be there. And Guess what? I was right! His groomsmen thought I was crashing the wedding when they saw me sitting in the 4th row at the church and his Mother couldn't remember my name and was trying to figure out why I was there. Even Bryan looked a little caught off guard to see me when he finally realized I was there. It was a WONDERFUL time. Bryan and Linds sure know how to throw a party! I had the best time I have had in quite a while.

I'll tell ya, I couldn't have picked a better bride and wife for Bryan. Lindsay is amazing, and I could tell by looking at her, she loves him so much. Hes happy, and she is happy too. All I've ever wanted for him, he's found.

So, I guess, in some sort of way, it makes it all worth while. Had he not met me, moved to Orlando, and we broke up- he wouldn't have met her. I'm thankful for her. She'll always take care of him, the way he's always wanted.

I also took Giuliana over to meet with a photographer that is local here, and happens to be a girlfriends' father. He got to take some test shots of Giuliana after school (which explains the hair) but despite her ragga-muffin style the picture still looks pretty darn cute!

His name is Joe, and he'll be taking some pictures of Giuliana over the next few weeks and as I start to get the proofs back I'll post them here for all to see.

Until then- take care! I'm going to bed!

A Ponytail!

2009-03-28T20:42:00.004-04:00

Can you believe it? I was SHOCKED! I was messing around with Giuliana this morning and thought for sure her hair would not go up into a pony. I am glad to say I was WRONG!!

I took her to go get her hair cut this morning, and I got mine cut as well. I am glad we had some McDonalds to keep her busy while It was my turn to get my hair cut.

We didn't do much else today, kind of a lazy day. But it was a nice one. We did some playing and some singing.

We also went through 2 outfits today, and 2 pairs of PJs lol.

Matilda Jane Blog

2009-03-27T05:34:00.004-04:00

http://www.matildajane.typepad.com/

Denise was kind enough to feature Giuliana's picture on it last night. The picture of her that she posted is down below and one of my all time fave art fair pieces!

Have a great Friday everyone!

Smiles @ 6:30 am

2009-03-26T21:33:00.002-04:00

This little girl is just as happy as she can be at 6:30am when I wake her up and get her ready for school. I love that! I am not a morning person by nature but over the past few years I have learned that it starts the day off better if you are smiling and being kind to people in the morning. So, I have adopted that. Here are 2 of Giuliana this morning. Nothing fancy, but look at her excitement. I love it!

Shes so cute. I am one proud Momma that's for sure!!

It was a GOOD mail day :)

2009-03-24T21:01:00.003-04:00

Know why? Because my 1st box came from the show I did on the 1st. Matilda Jane, of course. As if I would buy anything else?!?! I know, I know, I should really branch out, but I just really love the stuff and Giuliana seems to as well. I love all of the stuff we got, but then again, I knew I would. I don't think I'll be exchanging anything except the 1 pair of ruffles, if I can get a pair of 18s that is. The 2s seem to be running a tad long. There were more clothes, but we'll have to save them for another day because she was done. Ah well, without further delay, here are the pictures her highness was kind enough to let me snap..

Doesn't she look cute here? I love this outfit and it was totally on accident. I would have never thought to put these 2 together, but it works!

Can we all please take a moment to notice the PHONES on this dress :D I wonder why I got her this dress hahah!

Sunday Afternoon Ice Cream

2009-03-22T20:43:00.004-04:00

Before Giuliana laid down for her nap this afternoon she was requesting that we go for Ice Cream- really she was requesting I TAKE her for ice cream, but whatever. I told her we would go after she took her nap. She promptly said "No, no nite nite me" but with in 5 minutes she was asleep in the backseat of the car. So we came home and I laid her down, and she slept for 4 hrs. But remember, she wasn't tired. HAH! Yeah right. When she got up, I stayed true to my promise, even though she had forgotten it all together. I got her dressed in one of my fave play dresses I picked up from target and I added the perfect accessory.. a bow from Aunt Carol!! I love that she makes bows for Giuliana, and they are always so well made.

At this point she decided it was to much work to use the spoon so she decided she would just bite into it.. but then she hurt her teeth with the cold..so she went back to the spoon.. thank goodness!!

Needless to say, it looks like she enjoyed her cotton candy flavored ice cream :)

Peace & Quiet

2009-03-22T13:26:00.003-04:00

It's what I have had a lot of the past week. With Clara passing Chuck and Darlene were away with the rest of the family in Ohio getting all of her arrangements together and burying her next to her husband, John, who passed before her. I was able to stay at their house, and tend to Mr. Khat while they were gone. Yesterday morning before the neighborhood awoke I took Giuliana outside to take some pictures. I need more practice with my camera, and I don't like a lot of people watching me all the time :D

Anyhow, these were the best ones I got.

I really like this peasant top and it looks cute with these pants- but I liked the peasant more underneath the knot dress, so I think that's prob how she will wear it most of the time.

She wanted to smell the flowers, and then she turned around and next thing I knew she had ..

picked me a flower !! She was so cute she told me " I pick flowers Momma, I love you much" It was cute. I almost fell over laughing.

I taught her how to say "Spin Spin Sugar" while she twirls and that's what she was doing here.

And last but not least, even though shes not looking, it's my fave. The lighting and everything.. I don't know, she looks like an Angel to me.

A Little Matilda Jane Love!

2009-03-19T21:01:00.003-04:00

I got a small box in the mail today, and Giuliana let me try on a few little goodies, but not much. I was also running out of light, and these are unedited because I'm on my lap top... But anyway, just something to post...

The pants I already had, but I hadn't been able to find the right color "white" to go with them, so they have sat in the closet for a few months. I am glad to say we have a shirt to match that is the right color off white :D

These are both new, and I hadn't planned on having her wear them together, but It was the easiest way to check the fit and so I put them on together haha :)

By the way, if you are wondering what she is looking at, and freaking out about , it's the squirrels up in the trees behind me!

Just 2 pictures

2009-03-16T21:56:00.003-04:00

Because it's been a long day. Clara passed away. I'll say more about it all later, but for tonight, just 2 pictures.

First up is Giuliana and Pop Pop enjoying some "Vitamin M&M" out on the back porch Saturday night.

Next is Giuliana in my Mother's office- she was pretending to be my Mother hard at work.. and I was trying on a skirt I got in the mail last week from Matilda Jane :) I love it, so bright, colorful, and very SPRING!

2 year + 15 days old

2009-03-15T20:18:00.004-04:00

Today was a day I had both dread, and looked forward to. It's hard to really explain why. I guess you'll just have to kinda figure out what I mean and bare with me. I had hoped to write something a little more eloquent this evening, but really, the words escape me tonight. I'm a little to emotional to be eloquent I suppose.

Today Giuliana is 2 years and 15 days old. I normally wouldn't be aware of how many days old she is. I stopped counting the days once she reached a 1 month old. But today is a little different. Today was a day I knew would come, long before she was ever even born. Today Giuliana is the EXACT same age that her brother Vance was when he passed away.

I dreaded this day, for obvious reasons. Today was the day I would be looking at a child, full of life, just like Vance was at her age. I would be looking into the eyes of a child who shared the same Father, and a lot of the same personality and physical traits. I would see EXACTLY how fast 2 years can go by before you knew it. I also knew that today I would be staring a little girl who did not have a Big Brother, but a Guardian Angel instead.

I said at the beginning of this post that I had also looked forward to this day, and that reason is not so obvious. You see, in the back of my mind, the fear has always been there. The fear that something would happen to my baby too, or that someone would hurt her the way they had Vance. For me, this day is sort of like a turning point. Today will come to and end, and tomorrow, my baby will still be here. The fear that something will (or could) happen to her will always be with me, but I am hoping that it becomes less and less evident in my every day decisions.

Child Abuse and Domestic Violence needs to stop. It's a simple statement, but if you really think about it, it should sound powerful. INNOCENT women, children and babies die each day because of it. Just walk away. Everyone loses their cool, even me. But walk away. NEVER hit another person, let alone a 2 year old toddler. There is no excuse, no reason. EVER.

At some point we are all held accountable for our actions in this world, and the man that killed Vance will be held accountable for his as well. His lousy jail sentence is coming to an end and he will be able to rejoin this world & his family ... But what about Vance? He doesn't get to come back from Heaven, so why should this guy get to go anywhere but Hell? It's just not right. Just think about that for a second...

I only have one question I'd personally like to ask the man who killed Vance 4 years ago and it is this : What kind of man does that make you if you beat up on a 2 year child??

PS: These kind of pictures I am posting tonight are the ONLY kind of pictures Giuliana and Vance will ever have together.

Bright & Colorful

2009-03-14T14:01:00.004-04:00

I love Bright & Colorful clothes. Not on me, of course. But on children. My Step Mother never let me wear dark colored clothes growing up, I of course rebeled. But I get it now. Little girls LOOK like little girls when they are all dressed in BRIGHT colors, funky shapes, and even funky pants. I really dont think Giuliana owns anything darker than brown, and certainly dosnt own anything thats black except 2 pairs of shoes. Me on the otherhand, I own lots of black. But Im an adult, and black is slimming, and always looks nice no matter what the occasion is.

I mean, seriuosly, whats not to love about this outfit? It's perfect for Giuliana. It may not be YOUR style, but you have to admit (even if you only admit it to yourself), It is Giuliana's style. She ROCKS her Matilda Jane like no other!

Look at these two kiddos, they are second cousins. His name is Michael, and he is my cousin Sheena's son. How cute are they? I loved watching them play, Giuliana was so gentle with him, and he just followed her around. Here they were playing hide-n-seek in her closet (Well, one of them anyway)

And then of course one of MDR III by himself.. Yes, that's what I call him, it's his intials. I'm either calling him MDR or Russell (which is his last name and what I call his Father). His Mother prefers I call him MDR :D So, MDR it is!

See MY Daddy!

2009-03-11T21:18:00.003-04:00

When I picked Giuliana up from school tonight I asked her if she wanted to go to the park and see Daddy. To which she promptly replied "See MY Daddy!" at the top of her lungs. Then she turned around to her friends at school and said "Bye, See Daddy!" and walked out of the class room. It was cute. The whole way to the park when she would break away from Abby In Wonderland on her DVD player she would ask about Daddy and where he was. I think that was her way of telling me that I wasn't driving fast enough. Anyway, these are a few of the pictures I took of them tonight. It was a lot of fun watching them two play. What you can't see from these photos is how absolutely DIRTY she ended up. Oh well. She got a bath when we got home!

Daddy picked up "De Donald's" for her on his way to the park to meet us

The last picture I have of them two swinging together she was about a 2 weeks old, if that.

I LOVE these last two pictures. In the one she's crawling towards us through a tube on the play ground and in the last picture they were saying " 1...2....3" before they BOTH slid down the slide :D

"The NANA"

2009-03-09T21:47:00.004-04:00

Well, tonight, The Nana, FINALLY called me after a week long sabbatical and asked me "Why are there no pictures of Nana and Giuliana on your BLOG?!?!?!" I laughed. I told her that there were. I was sure of it. I came home, looked through the blog, and found that there were no pictures of the Nana and Giuliana posted. WHOOPS! My bad. So, tonight's post is all about Nana & Giuliana.

Lori is a great person, and a wonderful Nana (Not Grandmother) to Giuliana. She loves Giuliana, and more importantly, Giuliana loves her too. It's sweet to watch them two together. They argue from time to time, but that's what happens. More often than not Nana is sneaking cookies, M's (M&Ms to most people), or Strawberry bars. Lori spends a lot of time teaching Giuliana the most important lessons in life :

How To Shop & Spend Pop-Pop's Money :D

Nana also takes Giuliana on trips to the beach, and even lets her Momma tag a long for the ride. These pictures I am posting tonight were all taken in Mexico Beach last summer. It's one of the best vacations I have ever had, and truly one of the only ones I think I have ever actually RELAXED during.

(Giuliana MUST see me do this quite often, what do you think?)

Do you know WHY I got to relax while I was in Mexico Beach?? BECAUSE the NANA was there!! You see, when Nana is around, she pretty much takes charge. She's a "take charge kinda girl" and it's sometimes nice to have someone OTHER than myself run and chase after Giuliana.

Everyone should get themselves a Nana, if you're lucky, you'll get one HALF a good as Giuliana's Nana. But then again, Every Nana should have a Giuliana, and I surely know that there is but just ONE of those ;)

So, Nana, How did I do? You have MADE it to the blog. Now you're famous. There was a lot more I wanted to say, some details I wanted to go into. But I'll skip it for tonight. I don't want you to cry when you read this, because you would have ;)

"Meeesha"

2009-03-08T20:56:00.005-04:00

Yep! That's right folks, Giuliana tried to say Mitra tonight. Thankfully she was unaware of what she was saying, and who she was actually calling. But none the less, she did try. When I asked her what my name was, she said "Momma!" but she seemed some what confused as to why my Mother was calling me "Meessha" lol.

Sunday was pretty low-key for us today. We BOTH slept in till 10am which was amazing. We hung out together at the house for a bit and then got cleaned up and went to Grammy's house.

Some of these pictures I took here at the house before we left and some I took at Grammys house out by the pool. I love this top, so much. It's so girly and SPRING!

I of course was afraid she was going to fall in the pool, but she insisted on swinging her little heart out on the railing...thankfully there was no swimming... for either of us..

A little FASHION SHOW :D

2009-03-07T21:53:00.005-05:00

I got my "Blog Win" yesterday from Matilda Jane. Denise does contests on her blog from time to time, and I won one of them a few weeks ago. Any how, I got the dress yesterday in the mail. Oh how I love brown UPS boxes with Matilda Jane stickers on them!! I even love it when I'm not sure WHATS inside of it :D I got a dress from fall that I wanted for Giuliana because its ALL blue, and it's got the leopard fabric I like so much. I'll be saving it for this fall, but I wanted to try it on to see how it looked on her.. She was being a ham this morning... can't you tell?

I also tried on some of the Anticipation stuff that came last week.. I love this stuff. The coloring is GREAT for Giuliana, and so beautiful.

There is something about this photo that jumps out at me. I am not sure what it is, it's not her eyes. Although they are beautiful, it's not what "calls to me " from this photo. Maybe it's the peace I SEE in her eyes. I don't know. But I do love this picture.

And then last but not least.. here is what she actually wore today.. Its GiGi and MiMi before we took her to McDonald's for lunch :D

Oh yeah, and before I forget.. Giuliana hugged me today and said " I love you pieces" which means she's trying to say what I say all the time, which is " I love you to pieces". I won't lie. I almost cried when she said that to me. She's such a sweet baby.

My Little Ballerina..

2009-03-05T20:38:00.003-05:00

(Yes, she was sulking and crying)

Oh, How I love this dress!! It was really hard to find, but I was able to trade some stuff I had for it. How nice is that? Needless to say, I am super stoked! It showed up in the mail today, which was a nice suprise.

Snap Happy

2009-03-04T21:06:00.005-05:00

That's me lately. Ever since I got this new handy-dandy camera I have been snap - snap- snappin away!!

I got my Traveling Trunk today from Matilda Jane. For those of you who do not know what it is- essentially it's a sample of each piece of clothing or accessory in the entire line. Everything is a different size so you can get an idea of how things fit, or what size you would need for you daughter...

Anyway, I tried a few on Giuliana tonight, she gave me all of about 10 minutes of her time after she got out of the bath and then after that she was done..

Don't you just wanna reach out and SQUEEEEEZE her! I sure do. She's so dang cute, and I love her little chubby legs! When in her life, other than now, will it be okay for her to have chubby legs? poor baby, never!! I do love them though, they remind me that she's not as "BIG" as she'd like to convince you she is!

She's also a little bit of a rockstar.. Can't 'cha tell?

Stop to smell the flowers

2009-03-01T22:42:00.002-05:00

The title pretty much says it all.. We should all take some time out in life to stop and smell the flowers... I did today while Giuliana was taking a nap, and then I made sure to show her what I had found..

Life seems to be speeding by lately. I really wish it would stop. I try to slow things down, sit down on the floor with her and read books, sing songs and play "Tickle Monster" but there is ALWAYS chores to do, phone calls to return, and It never seems like it all slows down for me.

If anyone knows how to make it all slow down, please do share. I feel like its FLYING by, and it's all I can do to hang on by the seat of my pants.

Birthday Bash x's 2

2009-03-01T21:59:00.005-05:00

That's right! Not only did Giuliana turn 2 yesterday, she also had 2 birthday parties!! Not all in one day of course, or even one weekend. But the child did have 2birthday parties.

Last weekend when I took Giuliana to Tallahassee my Dad, Step Mom and Sisters all decided to throw a little party for her. She was not only suprised, but excited for the cake and presents! I think I was more excited than her though. Wondering why? Well, I knew my Dad had found a portable DVD player for her, and that my car ride back to Orlando (about 300 miles) would be a LOT quieter than the ride up there was! For that, I was not only excited, but thankful!!

(This is me and 2 of my sisters, I have 1 more who wasn't present for the photo.)

(This cake was AMAZING!)

Then, as if all of that wasn't enough, we had another party for her yesterday. This party was at Chuck and Darlene's house. It's also where we had her party last year. This year however, she was a WHOLE lot more moble, and was INTO everything. Forgive the bad pictures.. It really was quite a task yesterday to make sure I took pictures and we didn't have any toddlers try to take a SWIM in the pool...eeeek!

(Birthday Breakfast)

(Forrest, Carli, Giuliana & Allison)

(Giuliana and her MAIN SQUEEZE, Linkon! Aren't they CUTE!)

(Giuliana and Grand Daddy Mark, Stephen's Father)

What a lucky girl huh? Im tellin' ya. She has no idea how good she has it. We aren't a perfect family, and she doesn't live a perfect life. BUT, and its a big one, she has SO many people in her life that TRULY love her, and thats a wonderful thing. Sadly, there are so many children out there in this world who aren't loved half as much as they should be, or she is.

Oh the ANTICIPATION

2009-02-27T20:43:00.005-05:00

( This is the Miso Pretty Ellie Halter )

Literally.. and It's also the name of an exclusive line from Matilda Jane. It was released about 2 weeks ago, right after Valentine's day. I got some stuff for Giuliana, and it came today. Just in time for her birthday. What a nice surprise.

She let me try on two of the items, but past that she was done. I liked them both, of course, and even my Mom liked them- imagine that!

Giuliana said "Pretty dress" and " MYYYY Dress!!!" so I'm guessing that she liked them as well ;)

( This is the Auto Matic Love Tank Dress )

Birthday Blues

2009-02-26T20:52:00.003-05:00

I'll be honest.. I've got them. It's not me that's getting a birthday, but Giuliana is. She's getting so big, and so fast. She'll be 2 in less than 2 days, and I honestly have NO idea where the past 2 years have gone.

One day she was like this

And the next thing I know, she's like this

*sigh* where did my baby go? Some times, actually, a lot of the times, I wish I could turn back the clock and go back. I don't think I actually SAVORED it as much as I would have liked to. I don't think I smelled her enough, or stared at her long enough.

Before I know it, she'll be too cool to hang out with her Mom. I just hope it isn't too soon. I'd like her to stay a little baby for a little bit longer.

50th Post!

2009-02-22T22:10:00.005-05:00

Look at me!!

This is my 50TH POST!

LOL, it is actually quite an accomplishment for me. I never keep up with these sorts of things :)

As I posted a few days ago, I got my Nikon D80 and these are a few pictures I took of "Non-Moving" subjects this past weekend while I was in Tallahassee at my Dad's house. The peacock's feathers are in my sister's room, and although she is not a fan, I really am.

Well, what do you think? The picture of the lady laying down, is actually a picture of a Persian rug that's been framed and sits above my parents bed. I love it. It's prob one of my faves, aside from the one that's in the dining room. I got a picture of that one too, but the lighting was never right so its not that hot. The fake flower sits on their dining room table, and the wood sticks are in the foyer. There were two vases of them, with the green beads strung through them. I liked them, obviously.

I also took some pictures of Giuliana too. DUH? I know. I can't help myself. It's hard to pick which ones to post. My Step Mom took the ones of me and Giuliana together. I took the rest.

While we were in Tallahassee she also got to go see Nana and PopPop, and ride the tractor of course!! Till she said " Pop Pop DOWN!" and she prompting started to jump off, it was cute though. Don't mind her 80's style Dora headband, her and her Nana couldn't help themselves ;)

Another Quote..and MISC

2009-02-20T22:32:00.004-05:00

"Hell Hath No Fury Like That Of A Woman Scorned"

And that is all I am going to say about that.. Use your imgination, I am SURE you won't be far off.

On other notes..

I got my Nikon D80 in the mail yesterday. Let me tell ya, I got an AMAZING deal on that thing! I love it, and I love it even more because I was able to afford it by just WAITING till it was the right time, and the right deal. I paid less than half of retail from a photographer I know from the boards. She wanted to upgrade, so she sold me her current one. Worked for me! I have taken a few pictures with it, but I am going to be really working with it this weekend.

Oh yeah, I'll also be going to Tallahassee this weekend. It is time to see the fam, on both sides.

Giuliana's birthday is next Saturday. I can't wait. I am a little sad, to be honest. She's growing up to fast. She's already fighting with me, and for those of you laughing at me, stop! It's not supposed to happen till shes a teenager!!! Hello, did she not get the memo? sheesh! She's also coming home with notes from school talking to me about her "naughty behavior" as I call it. I don't want to call her bad, or her behavior bad, so naughty was the best I could come up with. I'll be honest, I am also scared. If I already have a very independent child at 2, I fear what she'll be like when she's a head strong teenager who knows all, and is all. Please, someone remind me one day that she once was a sweet child, who loved her Mommy ;)

Do you know she sings songs? She does. Sometimes its the ABCs or Twinkle Twinkle.My fave though, is one she's made up herself.

It goes a little something like this:

"I love Momma. I love Momma"

And as simple as it is, it melts my heart, brings tears to my eyes, and rights all the wrongs all at the same time.

God Bless her. I don't know where i'd be without her.

Quotes

2009-02-15T20:12:00.001-05:00

I have a thing for quotes, always have.

Here's one a girlfriend sent me today that I really like, and sounds like it could even be Dr. Seuss!!

You'll get mixed up, of course, as you already know. You'll get mixed up with many strange birds as you go. So be sure when you step. Step with care and great tact and remember that Life's a Great Balancing Act. Just never forget to be dexterous and deft. And never mix up your right foot with your left

Feb. 7, 2009

2009-02-07T19:31:00.005-05:00

I know, I need to work on more inventive titles, but lately, I have been slacking ;)

It's been really cold here this past week- well, cold for us anyway. A few mornings last week it was in the low to mid 20s, and for Florida, that's pretty darn cold! Giuliana and I both don't own clothes for that sort of weather so we were very "layered" on those days. I was even able to break out her gloves from last year so that he hands wouldn't be as cold- yes, they still had the tags on them.

One of the mornings, I think it was Thursday, my car was COVERED in ice. I didn't realize it was a problem really till I got into the car and tried to look through my front windshield. I couldn't see. It took me a minute to figure out what I was going to do about it- and finally decided to turn up the heat and stand outside with my drivers license and try to scrape all of the ice off. I was cursing Mother Nature at that point, and it took FOREVER to get it all cleared away!

All of the cold weather was worth it though- today was beautiful. TODAY is why people move to Florida, or live here during the winter. It was 50-60 degrees this morning and warmed all the way up to 72 degrees :)

I took Giuliana to Tampa today for a belated 30th birthday party ( I didn't take any pictures, whoops!) for Tony. Now Tony turned 30 back in September, but he was serving our glorious country over in Iraq so we've all been waiting- his wife more anxiously than the rest of us- for him to come home. He's not home for good, only for 18 days, but it sure was nice to see him, and to see his wife so happy. The last time he saw Giuliana she wasn't even walking, so today was quite a treat.

(This is Tony's wife Alicia RIGHT before Tony walked in and she yelled "SUUUPPRRRISE!")

We taught her how to say " Happy Birthday" a few weeks ago, and today in the car on the trip over we added " Tony" to the phrase, so after a while, and after things calmed down she started saving it over and over. I asked her if she was ready to go tell him Happy Birthday and she said yes, so I took her over there and told him and I said :

"Giuliana has something she wants to tell you Tony."

to which he smiled and stood there waiting on her.. She just looked around for a few seconds, and almost APPEARED to be shy..

Next thing I know, she says ever so QUIETLY "HappY Firthday To-ney"

I was proud.. what can I say ;)

Out with the OLD and in with the NEW

2009-01-31T19:01:00.003-05:00

I tell ya, I don't know what it is about getting your hair cut, but it's really nice.

I went this afternoon and cut quite a few inches off, and also colored it ( yes, I have lots of gray already) and by the time I left the salon I was so happy, and refreshed.

I also weighed myself today, and in the past 31 days I have lost 8 or 9 pounds. I'm pretty happy about that. There is more that I need to lose, but it's really encouraging to see a difference.

I really can't wait to see what the future has in store for me.. I know it's going to be great :D

2009-01-24T19:38:00.004-05:00

I couldn't think of a title, so there isn't one tonight.

Giuliana is standing in front of the TV watching GO DIEGO, GO! and I decided it was time to update my blog.

Everything is going well around here. I started a new job,and I like it pretty well. Its something all together new, so it means its a lot to learn and retain. I also now work for an hourly wage, and I never have done that before. I'm not used to having to account for my "time" down the minute, so I am learning how to to keep better track of myself and my time at lunch. Being on time to work has never been an issue, I have always been one to be early. I suppose it has something to do with being late one time about 7 years ago, and the GSM at the dealership made me unlock, start, and shut off every car on the lot.. in JULY. So, yeah being on time to work has never been an issue since.

I took Giuliana last weekend to Tampa to see some family, and while I was there I went to Amy C's house. I have NEVER seen so many clothes for one child in my LIFE! When the girl says that her daughter has 4 walkin closets full of clothes, she was not under stating herself. She's serious. Its not ALL Matilda Jane. But a vast majority of it is. She also has a lot of boutique brands, and some Euro brands as well. Her daughter is one well dressed kid lol. Anyway, the trip to Tampa was a lot of fun. Lori and Dave, AKA Nana and PopPop always have so much fun with Giuliana and she always comes home with a but of a 'tude, but with in a few days I usually have it all resolved.

I also took Giuliana to the circus while it was in town. We went her main guy, Linkon, and his Mom too. It was a lot of fun and she did much better than I would have expected. She was pretty good and payed attention to most of it. I think we left about 15 minutes early, but it was alright. I too had never been to the circus, so it was a first for both of us.

I love this snappy top, It took forever for me to find, but I obviously was pateint enough, and low and behold, here we have it.. I think the colors are great for Giuliana and it's such a fun top, and even looks great with jeans!

Now these I took this morning. The dress Giuliana is wearing is actually supposed to be a top, but either its cut longer, or she is shrinking ;) I really cant even begin to tell ya how cute I thought she looked today, and even my Mother, who typically doesn's take photos or photograph well, looks great in this one!

And in this one we have Grammy AKA Mammy..

"It's Time For A Change"

2009-01-20T21:03:00.005-05:00

"Hope is not blind optimism. It's not ignoring the enormity of the tasks ahead or the roadblocks that stand in our path.

It's not sitting on the sidelines or shirking from a fight. Hope is that thing inside us that insists, despite all the evidence to the contrary, that something better awaits us if we have the courage to reach for it and to work for it and to fight for it." Barack Obama, Iowa 2008

I couldn't agree with this statement more. Not just in my personal life, but also in this country I live in. I'm working on the part about my life, and beginning today at 12noon, Barack Obama began working on his part.

To be honest, I did not vote for him. But that's okay. I have a lot of respect for the "Office" of President, and I am a GOOD American, who is proud of our Democracy and our way of free thinking. President Obama was voted by half of my fellow Americans, and I for one hope he will rise to the occasion and help turn our troubled economy around.

Now, I am not naive and I don't think I am going to wake up tomorrow and find that not only has my personal life gotten back to normal, but so has our country. I know that they will both take time, and some hard choices I am sure.

I am ready.

We are ready.

"Yes, We Can!"

I LOVE HER ;D

2009-01-11T18:11:00.003-05:00

She loves me too. Read her shirt ;)

I took these this morning before we left for the day. I had SUCH a lovely time today with her. She really is quite a joy, and growing up and into the most lovely little girl a Mom could ask for.

I never post pictures of myself, so there is one for you ;)

Time

2009-01-10T14:46:00.002-05:00

What a funny thing time is. Time is the one thing you can not bargain with, or negotiate with. It's the one thing you can't buy more of, or replace. It's also the one thing that can never be taken away from you. How your spend YOUR TIME is your choice, but every minute that passes by is one more minute that you can't replace. When it's gone, it's gone. Nothing you can do will ever change that.

Be careful how you spend your time, who you spend it with, and what you get in return.

Ohhhh MAYA

2009-01-01T17:27:00.004-05:00

Love this dress shes wearing! Its called a Maya, this one is from last fall if I remember correctly and I have paired it with some pieces from this years fall line. Needless to say, she was not only warm, but adoreable!!

Her Grammy says she looks like she stepped off the Sonny & Cher show, but I don't care. I just LOVE it :) Im also thankful its getting chilly again this week and she'll be able to wear again so soon :)

These were taken a few days before Christmas.

Christmas

2009-01-01T17:23:00.002-05:00

Yeah, I am running a tad behind. But, I have had a lot going on with the Holidays and some personal issues, to personal for here, so I am just now getting around to this..

Christmas was lots of fun, Giuliana really got into it this year which is what made it fun for me. I emjoyed watching her open presents and getting all "wide eyed" when she saw what was in tha packages. We all used ELMO and DORA paper so she would know that the presents were for her and it was a success ;) She got more goodies then I could list, and enjoys them all. I think she likes the ELMO LIVE! that she got, and the "BABY" and the STROLLER best though. She also got lots of Dora books, and toys. She got crayons, stickers, and coloring books, and the list goes on and ON! I'd also like to mention she got a pair of FLORIDA STATE SEMINOLE shoes :D They are SUPER cute !!!

Here are some pictures of her from Christmas Eve and Christmas Day ;)

(to be added when I get home )

Before We Were Parents

2008-12-29T14:54:00.004-05:00

This is a picture of Stephen and I before we were parents. I found it on his Mom's computer here in Tallahassee. How odd it is for me to see this picture. So much has changed. I honestly can't even remember the last picture that Stephen and I even took together, or the 3 of us took together. I am not sure what happened, or how it didn't work. All I know is that I tried, and I am sorry that it didn't work out. I have a lot of regrets, as I am sure he does as well. But the past is the past, and what's done, is done.

The picture was taken at a club in Downtown Orlando a few days after we got together.

Mommy Paparazzi

2008-12-20T20:26:00.003-05:00

Sometimes I wonder what I must look like to the outside world, or people watching me. I am ALWAYS trying to get Giuliana to SIT still or STAND still. Key word of course being STILL, which obviously does NOT always happen. I do try though. I also need to invest in a DSLR, but everytime I get ready to, something comes up and I can't get one. I am VOWING to get one when I get my taxes back. It's time. I would be able to get the few good ones I post a WHOLE lot quicker than what it currently takes me. Sometimes she even fights me. I try to make a game out of it, or sing songs so that she smiles and stands still, but somedays she just doesn't want her photo taken. Today, well, it wasn't THAT bad. It did take a few trys to be able to get the few I am posting, but it could have been a lot worse! The top shes wearing is a Gretchen Ellie Halter from the Matilda Jane art fair in Michigan over the summer. I love the fabric on the bodice of the top ;) We have a few things that this fabric is in because it looks so great on her!

Here is an example of what I mean.. The first picture was taken in the house while she watched Jacks Big Music Show on Noggin. Notice how shes ignoring me.

This one was taken in the car, leaving, because she would not stand still for a picture before we left...

SUCESSSSSS! After we got home, before nap time, she sat still in garage and let me take a picture of her :)

But, I was greedy and wanted ANOTHER one, and she sat still in Clara's wheel chair long enough for me to take a picture of her :D

Quality Time

2008-12-18T11:33:00.003-05:00

Giuliana and I have had LOTS of quality time together this week and I have really enjoyed it. I didnt realize how much I missed her, and how much of her I was missing till this week. I layed off last week, so she's stayed home with me this week. We haven't done that since I was on maternity leave a year and a half ago. My how the time has gone by, but thats a whole nother post..

I have had the time to dress her pretty a few days this week and It's been fun ;) I've been able to get a few pictures of her. The first ones are ones I took this morning... She's wearing Matilda Jane, of course. It's the Holiday Knot top and Celery Ruffles, underneath she has a onsie on.

I like this one, I put her in her car seat and she was soo excited that we were going somewhere.

I just LOVE her ;) Seriously, what's not to love ;)

She's trying to break into Grandma's house here lol

This one is funny, everytime she says "cheese" she crinkles her nose up and smiles so sweet :)

I have more pictures but I have not uploaded them yet. When I get them uploaded, I'll post them. Allison is also almost done with the Holiday pictures that she took, and I'll post them too when I get them!!

A Little Game Of TAG!

2008-12-11T13:33:00.002-05:00

Tag. You're It.

Casey from Birdie and The Queen Bee tagged me for 8 things about me - here are mine.

8 Favorite TV Shows:
I actually don't watch a lot of television)

1. LOST
2. Greys Anatomy
3. House
4. One Tree Hill (When I can catch it)
5. Law and Order Reruns
6. Las Vegas reruns
7. Lipstick Jungle
8. CSI Miami

8 Things I Look Forward to:

1. Reading TWILIGHT again ;)
2. Giuliana waking up in the morning
3. Sleep
4. Not having to go to work that day
5. Beach Vacations
6. Birthdays
7. Summertime
8. Being Online

8 Things on my Wish List

1. More Money
2. A good and happy life for Giuliana
3. My Sisters to know how much I really do love them, despite what they were told
4. For Vance to still be here
5. To OWN MY OWN HOUSE
6. To own more books
7. To go to Australia and Greece SOONER than later
8. To have more children someday, and maybe get married.

8 Things I did yesterday

1. Laundry
2. Showered
3. Took Giuliana to school
4. Went by the bank
5. Work
6. Finished Twilight
7. Chatted online a little
8. Went to bed early

8 Favorite Restaurants

1. Chilis
2. Panera
3. Olive Garden
4. Cheesecake Factory
5. California Pizza Kitchen
6. Firehouse Subs
7. Melting Pot
8. Any Fish House on the BEACH

8 Blogs I Follow:

1. Casey
2. Denise
3. Dawn
4. Aubrey
5. Siena
6. Allison
7. Erin
8. Melinda

Manic Monday...?

2008-12-08T11:14:00.003-05:00

I wish that were true. I am not expecting much excitement today actually.

I am home now, and don't have to be at work for a few hours.

I managed to read the 3rd Twilight book, called Eclipse, yesterday. It wasn't that busy at work, obviously. But I did have to spend some time last night reading as well. It was a little over 600 pages. I am not sure what I am going to do once I get the series all finished. People I know who have read them, say I will re-read them. I suppose it's possible, and likely true. But I am going to try to find some other books I would like to read. I used to read everything that Nicholas Sparks' wrote. He's a great writer, in my opinion. I know he's put out a few books in the past few years that I have not yet read, so perhaps that's where I will start. I realized in getting into "Twilight" I renewed my love of reading. Now, If I can only manage to keep up with it.

Giuliana and I had our Holiday pictures taken yesterday in a local park. I am excited to see how they come out. I had 3 different outfits for her to wear, all Matilda Jane, of course. I took a few with her each time I changed her, and I hope that some of them come out cute. I never have enough pictures taken of her and I together and it would be nice to have one that we both looked good in for our Holiday cards that I am trying to make myself send out.. You all know how much I LOVE to do that sort of thing *haha!*

I don't have much else to report on, but here's a picture of Giuliana before we left yesterday morning.

Catch Up Time!!

2008-12-05T10:11:00.005-05:00

I have been kinda MIA since before Thanksgiving. Sorry about that. I do have some new picture to post, and some things to fill everyone in on, but I don't really know how much time I'll have... So, I'll do my best.

Mark, Carol and Siena were here the week of my Birthday, and left just a few days before Thanksgiving. Mark took tons of pictures, and we even managed to have a Family photo taken. I only have that one to post right now, I emailed Carol to ask for the rest of them :) Some of the ones that Mark got of the girls together are adorable! While they were here we also all went to Church together with Grandma, which I know she really loved. It was nice to see them, and I hope they come back soon!! Giuliana sure loves playing with Miss Siena

Mark, Carol and Siena on the left. Erin, Giuliana and I down below. My Mother, Granny and Lori on the right side.

For Thanksgiving we went to Tallahassee to see Lori and Dave, AKA Nana and PopPop. It was fun, it always is. I left at 4am, and drove up there. Ill never do that again. I was falling asleep most of the way and seriously considered pulling over. Once Giuliana woke up, it was easier to stay alert. We sang songs and played the word game the rest of the way there. Thanksgiving dinner/lunch was lovely. Grandma Carol, Dave's Mother, started a new tradition this year. We each had to tell everyone what we were thankful for. So, It started with her, people started crying. Then it moved down the line. It got to me, and I of course was thankful to be EMPLOYED when so many people are not, and thankful for Giuliana who wouldn't hold my hand like she was supposed to. Then it was Dave's turn to say what he was thankful for, and he couldn't. He was all "choked up", so Lori had to take over. Before Lori even spoke the words, I knew what she was going to say, what Dave couldn't say. They were thankful for Giuliana. She said, and I'll prob never forget this either "We are thankful for our beautiful Granddaughter, and her Mother for taking such good care of her." At that point, she was crying, as was I. Without having to SAY it, I knew what she meant. I am sure everyone else did too, but it felt more like a secret between the 3 of us. It didn't feel like there were 20 other people watching us. (I'll post pictures tonight, I don't have them at the moment)

We are getting geared up for Christmas around here. Darlene put her tree up, and we have all started wraping and buying Christmas gifts. It's always fun to sit and try to think of what to get each person. I am glad that this year we decided to draw names with the Ketzel side because I would have been sitting for days trying to figure out what to buy everyone.

Here are some recent photos of Giuliana, from the past few weeks :) The first one is some Matilda Jane, of course.

The second picture is an Etsy, Loves Me Not Boutique, set I got in the mail. It's a dress that ties in the back and some leggings to go under it. I'm going to have Allison from Von Groveland Photography take some more of Giuliana in this Etsy set. It's so sweet on her.

This last picture is a knot top that was made by Erin, another Etsy designer, her blog is at the bottom of my page. The ruffles Giuliana wore are Matilda Jane Art Fair.

Semi-Wordless Wednesday

2008-11-26T12:19:00.005-05:00

This is Vance's memorial ribbon and it was displayed in October in front of the police station in Houlton, Maine.

Gone But Not Forgotten

Jamie

2008-11-21T23:09:00.003-05:00

My girlfriend Jamie is probably one of the sweetest girls I know. She and I go way back, and I do mean WAY back. I am pretty sure we have been friends for 10 years now. We don't get to see each other often. I am busy with Giuliana and she's always jettin' off somewhere. But she did take time out of her day on Tuesday to come to dinner for my Birthday. Her idea, mind you. I would have more than likely, stayed home. But Jamie had other ideas and she saw too it that they happened!

Giuliana was quite a handful, and needless to say, no there were no photos of her and I from that night.

This photo would have been great, except for 2 things happening. 1) My finger was in the way & 2) she was preparing to JUMP OFF of the chair!

I forgot about Thankful Thursday.. whoops.. I guess this week I have been most thankful for her. She has no idea how thoughtful it was of her.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-11-19T00:02:00.000-05:00

(August 2008)

Yummy Velour

2008-11-18T22:46:00.004-05:00

We got this jacket a few weeks ago, and it has finally been cold enough to wear it! I love this jacket, and so does Giuliana. It's so soft and keeps her warm with out being to cumbersome on her when she is trying to get around.

Nothing really interesting to report today. It was my Birthday, 26 years old now. It seems like the years just keep passing by even quicker than they did the year before. What's up with that? I guess that means my Mother was right, and as soon as you have a child the years just go by faster and faster.

I did get some nice gifts today, 3 dresses, 1 necklace, and 1 bracelet from Brighton that has a cupcake on it :D I love that bracelet LOL, I don't know what it is. But I do love it. My girlfriend Jamie also got me the prettiest pink roses, once they open I'll take a picture and post it. The dresses are cute too, I wore one tonight to dinner, and Ill wear one of the other ones tomorrow, and then another one on Thursday, weather permitting. I am going to get some black tights and some knee high boots with a heel so that I can wear my dresses this fall/winter with out being so cold!

Attitude.. and LOTS of it!

2008-11-15T22:32:00.006-05:00

For the past few days when I go to get Giuliana from school I find her wearing mini pig tails. Imagine my shock, because she doesn't often allow people to do things with her hair.

When I picked her up Friday night and took her over to Grammy's house for dinner I was able to try to snap a few pictures. She of course, was not a fan and was giving me SO much ATTITUDE about the whole thing. Little did she know, if she would have just let me get ONE nice picture, I would have stopped LOL.

This one was taken outside, it was dark, but I tried to make the best of it.

And this one was taken on the steps, she wanted in the house, and I wanted a picture.. So, this is what she let me have.. Like I said, ATTITUDE.

Last but not least, I had to bribe her with a cookie just so she would look at me!!!

Thankful Thursday

2008-11-13T09:42:00.003-05:00

Today's post is easy. I just wanted a place to list the things I am thankful for, the people I appreciate and so often don't tell them.

I Am Thankful For:

1)Giuliana and all the love and laughter she has brought to my life because without her life would never be the same.

2) To be EMPLOYED when so many others out there are not.

3) To have a place to live, food to eat, and clothes to wear. They may be necessities, but there are so many who go with out. I am lucky to not have to.

4) For my Family. All of them, even the ones that aren't actually blood related. They are important to me too, and they have become MY FAMILY.

5) My friends, because as the saying goes "Your friends are the family your heart chooses for you " and it is so true.

6) For Stephen. Because with out him, I wouldn't have Giuliana.

There are many other things I should be thankful for, and am thankful for.. But I have to same some for next Thursday :)

Wordless Wednesday

2008-11-12T06:56:00.001-05:00

(August 2008)

"Seeee Daddddy"

2008-11-11T20:47:00.005-05:00

That's Giuliana's new word. She says it in the morning, at school, at dinner time. Everything is "See DADDDDDY!" sometimes with more "umph" than others. But none the less, I am guessing the child wanted to see her Daddy.. So that's what we did.

Stephen happens to live very close to a nice lake her in town that has had a major renovation. They have built all sorts of fountains around it, and even a path or walk way that goes around the lake and across it. We enjoy going there to walk at night with her in the stroller but this time we took her during the day and let her walk around.

Every few steps we would take she would stop and look through the bars, as if to check and make sure that it hadn't gone any where, or that the ducks were still there. It was cute. It took forever to get any where, but cute none the less.

I tried to get a nice picture of them sitting on the bench but it wasn't a successful thing. I'll have to try again. Lately, she's got this thing about NOT looking at the camera. She thinks it's funny, I obviously am not a fan...

Here are the photos anyway :)

Simply Bowdacious

2008-11-10T15:53:00.004-05:00

Yep! Giuliana is Simply Bowdacious! (pun intended)

One of the girls I know through the Matilda Jane forums also makes bows on the side, and has her own website too of course. Any how, I was telling her how I wanted to branch out into the world of bows and how Giuliana had recieved a few for Christmas from her Aunt last year but that I needed some to match some the bright Matilda Jane colors that are in the new fall/winter lines.

So, she sent me this one. Its Brown, Pink & Lime. I love it. It will match ALMOST everything that we have, which is awesome.

If you would like one, shoot Melinda an email!!! I'm sure she could get you a bow that will make your daughter look just as BOWDACIOUS :D

Another Matilda Jane Day

2008-11-08T17:51:00.005-05:00

Yep! That's right folks! It's another Matilda Jane day here on the home front!

This is the Tea Cup Halter which is UBER fancy and can be worn as a skirt as well (Imagine THAT!) and of course, the ever handy Pinkie Big Ruffles from the HomeGrown line (Spring '08)

This halter is by far one of my faves, and one of the hardest things I have had to track down.. But ohhh so worth the work! I just LOVE it on Giuliana.

This one was hilarious! I said "Smile" and she said "Cheeesssseee!"ever so sweetly!

FINALLY! She stood still long enough for me to snap a picture, right after she heard the camera make a noise, she was off again!

It's Giuliana's World..

2008-11-08T14:21:00.002-05:00

I dated a guy a while back (okay, ages ago) who used to say "Mitra, baby, this is YOUR world! I'm just happy to be LIVIN'in it". Now, of course, it was said in fun. He would always try to get me going- and see what I would say next.

Any how, lately, it's been creeeeeeping into my head. But a little differently..and it makes me smile. It goes a little something like this :

Giuliana, Honey, this is YOUR world! I'm just THANKFUL to be 'LIVIN'in it

And I really do mean it. It sounds funny, sure. But it's true. This IS her world, because everything I do, day in and day out, it's done for her. Even my hobbies are a reflection of her. I hope some day when she grows up in to a head strong teenager she is still able to realize how much I really love her, even if she also thinks "I don't know anything".

Blog-Lift

2008-11-07T23:22:00.002-05:00

Thanks to the talented Casey, I have managed to give this blog a face lift ;) I hope you all enjoy it. As I have more time to play around, I'll figure out how to change the background to something equally as cool as my new HEADER But until then...

Random Blogging

2008-10-30T14:10:00.005-04:00

I am bored, So I figured I would catch up on my blog.. Let's see... This is going to be random thoughts, and details... key word, RANDOM.

Giuliana had "Picture Day" today at school. They do it every October. I will be interested to see the pictures next to each other, this years and lasts. I wonder how different she will look to me. I see her every day, so I don't see the changes everyone else does. Anyhow, I was trying to decide for the past few days what she should wear for her pictures today, and I couldn't decide. No matter what outfit I came up with, I decided against it. I ended up putting her in a solid brown dress (Brownie Lap) and a coral/peach colored long sleeved tee (Cora LS tee) and a pair of mushroom tights (Mushy Tights) under the dress. It was cute. I more than likely could have come up with some thing better, but that was all I could think of. I think they are doing retakes tomorrow, so maybe I can get a different outfit picked out and have them retake them tomorrow.

Have I ever told you how much I love that girl? Well, I do. I love her from here to the stars and back again. I don't know what I did in life before her, and I haven't a clue what I will do in life after I am done raising her. I'm not naive, she won't want to live with Mommy forever, but I do hope that the next 16 years and 4 months don't go by too quickly.

I went to a wedding over the weekend. My friend Jerry from high school got married to a lovely girl named Christina. Now, Jerry and I have been friends for 10 years, and he was never the "Marrying kind" if you know what I mean, he wasn't even good at relationships. But this one seems to stick, which is a good thing. Last year they had TWINS about 3 months after I had Giuliana. Christina looked beautiful, and cried all the way down the isle and through her vows. You could tell that she really loves him, which is wonderful. Jerry has always gotten a bad rap- his fault of course- but he deserves a girl that loves him from his head to his toes, and all that goes with him.

Hrmm... what else...I am sure that there is more I should update on, but I just can't seem to get my thoughts in order. Even now, as I type, random thoughts are in and out quicker than I can jot them down.

Ah well. I have some pictures to post from Jerry's wedding, and some more recent ones of Giuliana, but I don't have them with me. I'll work on that later.

"Prettttttty"

2008-10-19T22:55:00.004-04:00

I got a knot in the mail the other night from a girlfriend of mine out in California, in the envelope was also a matching bow. Giuliana thinks they are called "Pretties" because thats what all the daycare teachers call them.

Anyhow, this morning after I got her dressed and I was brushing her hair she saw the bow sitting there and she began to tap her head and point to the bow.

I asked her if she wanted to wear it and she nodded yes and then signed "Please" while also saying " Eeeeassse".

I put it in her hair, but I really didnt figure she would leave it alone. I was SHOCKED when she didnt pull it right back out, so I took some pictures. She wore the bow off and on all day long.

She may turn out to be a bow girl after all!

Giuliana's FAMOUS!

2008-10-19T22:51:00.003-04:00

Soooooo, Denise, owner of Matilda Jane and FABULOUS Designer, put Giuliana's picture up on her website!

I cant even tell you how PROUD I was of my baby!

I knew Allison from VonGrovelandPhotography would also be just as ecstatic, so I called her, at 11:45 the other night :D I guess It was kinda late, but I knew she would want to know, plus I would then have someone to share my excitement with!

Here is the link to the site where Giuliana's picture is displayed. Thank you Denise!

http://www.matildajanegirls.com/item_61/ONe-cute-chick.htm

Financial Diet '08

2008-10-15T17:01:00.002-04:00

Looks pretty self explanatory I am sure. But here is a little background...

Some of the girls I am friends with were talking about going on a Financial Diet that would last until Dec 31st to see how much money they could save. They all said that they spent money every day on "stuff" that they didn't NEED or have to have, so why not SAVE IT. That's where the little ticker came into place.... I decided to jump on this wagon too. I don't spend money with out reason, typically anyway, but I thought I may as well try to save 200 dollars every pay period. It starts today and ends on Dec 31st. It should be interesting, I am hoping to have 800 dollars saved going into the new year. It would be nice if I could do it.

The other goal or point for me was to have all of my existing debt paid off by the end of the year as well. I want to be debt-free except for my monthly bills. It would be really nice to get my tax return check and NOT have to use it to pay off debt from the year before.

On a note about Diets... I'm also working on a Weight Loss Diet as well. I'll get a ticker for that too after I can decide what a reasonable weight loss goal is for me. I have already started to watch what I eat, and I have upped my water intake. I'm hoping that just by doing those two simple things I will start to see some small results. I won't have the extra money for a gym membership until the end of the month when we get paid, but it's on the list as well!!!

Root for me! I need all the positive support I can get ;)

We're Sick!

2008-10-13T16:29:00.006-04:00

Yeah, Giuliana and I are both sick! It's not be fun needless to say! I was off yesterday so she and I spent the day together. That part was nice, but being stuck in the house because neither of us was feeling well was NOT so nice!

Im off on Friday, and working all weekend again. But Im off the next weekend'. A friend of mine is getting married on Saturday the 25th and I'm really excited to go. Giuliana was also invited to a birthday party on Sunday so we'll be going to that too!

My Matilda Jane Trunk Show is Friday night, I'm hoping that up back up to par by the time it comes around. Doing all of that will not be easy if my head is all fogged up, thats for sure.

Not much else to report today.. Kinda quiet on the homefront.

I took these 2 pictures of Giuliana last week, she was looking up at the airplane! Right after I snapped the 2ed one she said "Aerr Plann". I think her Nana taught her that ;)

Seat At An Empty Table

2008-10-11T14:59:00.004-04:00

Every year in October the Battered Women's Project in Maine hosts several events in honor of those we have lost (in their state) due to Domestic Violence. One of the events that they do is something called "Seat At An Empty Table". The easiest way to explain that is: The set a table for 4 people, each place setting memorializes one specific/individual person who's life was lost as a result of domestic violence.

It's a very nice display and something I have taken on, as my "job" till Giuliana gets older and I can pass it on to her. I want her to take time out every day to remember Vance, in any way she can (She was born after he had passed) and doing these events with the BWP will be a good way for her to express herself as she gets older.

Last year I painted a picture frame to match the place setting I had decided to use. Vance loved Scooby Doo, so I wanted to use that as his "theme". I decided to send the photo and frame because through out all the newspaper coverage his story received, they never posted a picture of him. No one had ever seen his beautiful little face.

Well they have now. A newspaper called the Pioneer Times in Houlton ran a story after they interviewed Stephen by phone. They also ran this picture on their front page last year. Vance ceased to be just a name they read in the paper a few years ago. Hopefully, they will never forget his face or his tragic ending.

Here is the Memorial I typed up that was also displayed with his place setting

Stephen Vance Ketzel Fort Kent, Maine
Vance was only 2 years old when he died on September 8, 2004. Although such a short stay here on Earth, Vance was a bright and cheerful little boy who loved the beach and motorcyles and left behind so many loved ones that miss him every day. Since his death, Vance has also become a big brother to two very special little girls. Every girl needs a big brother, a protector, to watch out for them. Instead, these two little girls, will grow up knowing their protector is a very special Guardian Angel, their big brother Vance.

ETA: I sent the display again this year, and it's to be set up in Fort Kent where he lived for a short while and passed away. Vance's Mother and Sister (other) still live there.

Busy Busy Girls!

2008-09-22T22:55:00.002-04:00

Sorry, Its been about 2 weeks since I last posted but I have been really busy working and chasing Giuliana every where she runs!!

I had my VERY FIRST Matilda Jane trunk show the other night with a TK that was here on vacation with her family. What a sweetie! Couldnt have asked for a better show or a better girl to do it with! Im having another one, October 1st. I'm also pretty sure that there will be a 3rd show, also in home, with everything from West Side on October 17th. Now, that one will be a bit different. West Side will actually be out, and we will all be able to see it, feel it, and order it! YAY! I did order quite a bit of WS from the show the other night, but there are still some things that were not orderable yet.. So, thats the purpose of the other catalog show on the 1st and the homeshow on the 17th. Gotta make sure I get all the WS I want, and I am pretty sure I will buy a few things to save for next year too. I really do love the line!

Giuliana is doing good. Shes been trying to talk a lot more lately, and she can really understand what we have been saying all along.. I found that out when this conversation took place

Me: Are you ready to go take a nap now?
Her " No " *shakes her head side to side*
Me: " Huh? " " No, honey, its time for a nap now "
Her: " Momma, No no" *shakes her head side to side*

Well, there you have it boys and girls.. Our very first fight. You can guess who won. I DID. Down for a nap she went, "No" and all. And here is the kicker, not even a whimper out of her when I layed her down, lol. What a goofy girl. I do love her though.

Here are a few pictures I have taken of her the past week or so :) All Matilda Jane , of course! Allison took the one of her on the steps! LOVE that picture!

Should Have Beens...

2008-09-07T23:00:00.003-04:00

Vance SHOULD HAVE BEEN 6 this year. Instead he's been gone 4 years tomorrow.
Vance SHOULD HAVE BEEN in Mexico Beach with us this summer. Instead he's in Heaven.

Every time I think of Vance I think about all of things that should have been. All the pictures that should have been taken, all the laughs that should have been shared.

I'm angry tonight. More so than usual. I'm angry for all the should have beens. I'm so very sad for his family and all that they have lost. Despite the rift between everyone, the pain is the same for everyone. The since of loss is different, but that doesn't mean it's not there. I said this to Lori when we were on vacation this summer in Mexico Beach...

When someone is taken from us so suddenly and unexpectedly everyone has some sort of guilt about something and everyone experiences a since of loss.

For each person its different, and it never really affected me till I had Giuliana. Now, because I am a parent, I can "imagine" how much it hurts.

Even I feel a since of loss because of his death..

I look at Giuliana and wish to God and back again that he were here with her. I just know that she would have adored him and would have looked up to him for guidance and comfort.

Every girl needs a Big Brother. Giuliana has a Guardian Angel instead.

RIP Vance

Friends

2008-09-01T12:35:00.003-04:00

How do you determine who is your friend and who is not? I have always struggled with that to be honest. I have not always been sure in life if so-and-so was friends with me for ME or friends with me for some other reason that would somehow benefit them. A few times I was known to pick the wrong "friends"but I think with age and children brings some knowledge.

Elizabeth, Allison and I have only been friends for about a year or so. Elizabeth and I worked together at the Cadillac store when we were both pregnant with the girls. We became "social" with eachother because of that one thing in common (pregnancy). I went on Maternity Leave and as I was coming back, she was begining her Maternity Leave...

Now, Allison and I met when Giuliana was 4 months old. I found her through a friend and asked her to come to our house and take pictures of Giuliana in her nursery since it was FINALLY complete. After all the hard work I had put into it, I had to have professional pictures of her actually IN it :) Allison and I hit it off, I would say, and became fast friends. In the year I have known her she has seen Giuliana learn to walk and talk. I have attended her wedding, photographed it, and been their for the birth of HER 1st child, Carli...

Lately, us 6 girls, do a lot of things together. We have all become good friends. Somedays I swear its these 2 WONDERFUL Ladies that keep me sane. We all became friends because of our children, but I can't think of a better way to become friends.

Thank you both for being my friend and helping me when I need it. I really don't know how I'd do it without you both!!!

Matilda Jane does the Central Florida Zoo

2008-08-24T21:53:00.003-04:00

So, today we decided we would take Giuliana to the zoo. Now, mind you, it was 90 degree so we were out of our minds to even ATTEMPT that, but we went! The best part was the water park that was attached to the zoo so she was able to play in the water and cool off after looking at all the animals..

Giuliana also wore her VERY FIRST Matilda Jane dress today, and I do think it was quite a hit with all the animals ;) She looked adoreable, if I do say so myself, and continued to "fluff" the aprin on the front of the dress:) I have a few more spring items coming, which she will get to wear for another few months and then I have placed an order for some fall items that are To Die For CUTE!!!

Speaking of Matilda Jane... I am going to have a few shows this fall, so if you are reading this and like the way Giuliana looks in it ( Ill post more pictures when the new stuff gets here ) then please let me know! I'd love to have you attend my show, either in person, or through the virtual window to my house ;)

Janie & Jack photoshoot :)

2008-08-01T10:26:00.002-04:00

These are just a few that the talented Allison took last weekend of Giuliana and Evie, and Carli too.. there will hopefully be some more I can add after Allison is done proofing them. They were all taken a local park which was nice, but very hottt!

Illonois & Iowa

2008-08-01T10:22:00.005-04:00

Well we made it back okay. Everything went as well as could be expected and I think Giuliana and her cousin Siena had the best time out of everyone. The two girls enjoyed playing with eachother and watching the wiggles every morning. They quickly adapted to their new routine :)

I will have to say that the car ride there and back, although long, really wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I don't think I gave Giuliana enough credit ;) She was amazing and such a trooper! I don't think she ever really CRIED while we were driving, just a fuss here or there when she wanted to get out for the day or to get us to stop and have lunch

Ill have some pictures to post of that when my Aunt & Uncle send them. So far I only have a few.. This one is my 2ed cousin Erin with Giuliana at the reunion on the 4th of July.

Giuliana and Evie in their Tutus :D

2008-06-13T09:39:00.001-04:00

Last week Elizabeth and I took the girls to the Zoo here in town. It was SOOO HOT. The girls didn't care so much for the animals and couldn't see most of them anyway because they were so small and not moving around so much. They did however like riding in the joint stroller and sharing snacks. After we went through the zoo and we were all hot and nasty we took the girls over to the water park part of the zoo. Thats where they had the most fun. I wasn't able to get any pictures of that because it was far to wet for my camera to have survived but I did get a few of them before hand... I really like the 1st one of Evie and the last one of Giuliana... They were my faves

Evie's 1st Birthday

2008-05-22T16:14:00.002-04:00

Well, as the title says, Miss Evie has turned 1! We were of course in attendance for the festivites and Giuliana of course enjoyed a cupcake with her best bud.

We have also been to Allison and Forrest's shower for Miss Carli whos due to arrive in the next few weeks. I don't have the pictures from that yet, but when I do I will post them :) The room was a little dark and I'm waiting on Allison to have a free minute or two to lighten them up!

Saturday Morning Breakfast With The Girls :)

2008-05-03T10:30:00.008-04:00

This is becoming quite a ritual these days...

Elizabeth and I have been meeting the past few Saturdays at a local place so the girls could have breakfast together and socialize. Not to mention that it gives Elizabeth and I sometime to socialize as well :D

Here are a few pictures from this morning. These two little girls were STARVING!!

Sunday Morning...

2008-04-29T09:49:00.005-04:00

So, Sunday morning at about 6am Giuliana decided that she wanted some attention. I went in her room and handed her the sippy cup of fresh milk. She promptly through it to the ground and then reached up for me. Now, mind you, she never refuses any kind of food or drink, specially right when she wakes up. So I picked her up and she layed down on my sholder and almost instantly she began snoring. I laughed, and took her to my room.I know I know. I caved. But sometimes, I just can't help it!! I layed down in bed and went back to sleep with her in my arms. About 2 hours later I woke up and took this 1st picture of her asleep on my arm. I waited another few minutes and then I shrugged her off and went to get her cup. When I woke her up and handed it too her I snapped this 2ed picture...

I Scream You Scream... She Screams For

2008-04-29T09:41:00.003-04:00

ICE CREAM!!! Yes, Giuliana has discovered the wonderful world of vanilla ice cream cones. She loves it. There was a Bruster's ice cream place near our house and I pushed her in the stroller over there last week ( a few times ) and let her have a mini ice cream cone. The 1st time she took way to big of a 1st bite, but she quickly learned that she would like them better if she ate them slower. I was impressed when she even ate the cone, I think ice cream was a hit.

Moving Day!

2008-04-26T10:45:00.002-04:00

Soooo! We're moving. I have been pretty busy the past week or so trying to go through things and getting things packed. I didn't have it all done when some of the family stopped by last night to help me get it started. But I think i'll all work out okay. I'll be off of work early this afternoon and I should be able to get the rest of it done today. Then I have to spend tommorrow and Monday cleaning the place and priming Giuliana's room back. I wasn't sad about moving until I started pulling everything out of Giuliana's room and boxing up all her wall decor and things. Im sad to have to paint over her pretty walls.

Thanks to Allison, I have a few very pretty pictures of Giuliana in her room. So i'll always have the memories in photo form.